President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to expanding cooperation with France in renewable energies and technological innovation, highlighting these efforts as crucial for addressing contemporary challenges and ensuring development.
He said the two countries shared history and goals which constitute a solid foundation for further collaboration.
The President was speaking at the commemoration of the France National Day celebration held at the Embassy of France in Accra on Saturday.
The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, French community in Ghana and other dignitaries.
According to Nana Akufo- Addo, the importance of July 14 transcends the borders of France, as it was a celebration of the incessant quest of the human spirit for freedom and justice.
“It reminds us that the fundamental struggle for our rights is a continuous effort that requires the vigilance and commitment of all nations and all peoples.”
“Our two nations have built a partnership that extends to various sectors, notably education, culture, trade, security, and governance. This partnership is a demonstration of the lasting strength of our shared values and aspirations. Indeed, France has been an indisputable ally in our journey towards progress and development,” he added.
Through the support of various initiatives and programmes, the French government, he said, had supported Ghana in areas such as the development of infrastructure, health, and education, adding that the contributions of the French Development Agency have contributed to improving the quality of life of many Ghanaians.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the enduring relevance of France’s values of freedom, equality, and fraternity amid the evolving political landscape.
Commending the French people for their resilience and unity, he urged them to continue defending these values, which serve as a global beacon of hope.
He expressed confidence in France’s democratic institutions, suggesting they will help navigate current political challenges and fortify the Fifth Republic.
The President further drew parallels with Ghana, emphasising that the principles of freedom, equality, and fraternity were also deeply embedded in Ghanaian society.
As Ghana approaches its December 2024 elections, he reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to fair, transparent, and equitable elections, positioning Ghana as a model of democracy in Africa.
Highlighting Ghana’s leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Akufo-Addo anticipated Ghana’s promotion from associate to full-time member at the upcoming summit in France.
He also extended congratulations to the French Ambassador to Ghana, Jules-Armand Aniambossou, for his efforts in strengthening bilateral ties.
Ambassador Aniambossou, on his part highlighted the strengthening friendship between Ghana and France, stressing the significant collaborations across various sectors.
He noted that the relationship has been bolstered by the political will of President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocity.
He cited examples such as the development of rubber plantations, power transmission lines, and improvements in infrastructure.
Mr Aniambossou also praised efforts in the agricultural sector and flood management in northern Ghana, supported by the European Union (EU) and the Agence Française de Développement and expressed strong support for Ghana’s application for full membership in the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, to be decided at the upcoming summit in France.
BY RAISSA SAMBOU
