Ghana, Japan Target 2027 for Stronger Partnership 

Ghana and Japan have agreed to

to strengthen partnership toward 2027, when three major anniversaries will mark a century of Ghana-Japan relations.

This was made known when President John Dramani Mahama and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru met on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Japan.

Both parties, on Wednesday, committed to deepening cooperation as they approach the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s voyage, the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and the 50th anniversary of JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers dispatch.

During the bilateral meeting held on August 20, both leaders expressed their desire to enhance investment and international cooperation between their nations. 

Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged President Mahama’s previous experience working at the Japanese Embassy in Ghana, stating his intention to build on this foundation for stronger partnership.

The Japanese Prime Minister offered his condolences for the tragic accident on August 6 that claimed eight lives, including Ghana’s Ministers of Defense and Environment. President Mahama thanked Japan for its support during Ghana’s moment of grief.

Prime Minister Ishiba discussed opportunities for Japanese startup companies in agriculture, education, and health sectors, as well as Japan’s continued infrastructure support. He requested Ghana’s cooperation in addressing challenges faced by Japanese businesses operating in the country.

President Mahama expressed Ghana’s appreciation for Japan’s past efforts in TICAD conferences and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. He stated his intention to continue working closely with Japan to promote increased investment by Japanese companies in Ghana.

The leaders also addressed various regional and international challenges, pledging continued collaboration for mutual growth and development.

President Mahama was accompanied by Foreign Minister Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa, Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza, and Senior Adviser Joyce Bawa Mogtari.

The two leaders are scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding on Thursday as part of TICAD 9 proceedings, before President Mahama delivers his official address to the plenary session.

Richard Aniagyei, ISD