Africom Commander deepens Ghana-US security ties
The Commander of the U.S.-Africa Command Centre (AFRICOM), General Stephen Townsend, has paid a two-day visit to Ghana for the first time.
He was in the country from February 23 to February 24, 2021.
During the visit, he met with several Ghanaian leaders, including President Nana Akufo-Addo; both current and immediate past Chiefs of Defence Staff Rear Admiral Seth Amoama and Lieutenant General Obed Akwa, respectively; Minister of Defence-designate Dominic Nitiwul and other senior members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
General Townsend stressed the need for joint security cooperation between the two countries.
"Ghana is an African security leader and a key partner of U.S. Africa Command.
"Ghana’s peacekeeping contributions, protection of vital sea lanes in the Gulf of Guinea, and leadership help prevent the advancement of violent extremism.
"I look forward to exploring ways we can continue to deepen our partnership", he said.
Other topics of discussion included the shared commitment to degrade the influence of regional violent extremist organisations.
Ghana contributes to efforts to counter violent extremism through its leadership within the Accra Initiative, which supports regional information sharing and cross-border security operations between the littoral West African states and the Sahel.
“West African security requires collaboration and partnership. The challenges faced cannot be faced by one nation alone,” General Townsend further noted.
“U.S. Africa Command is committed to working with the Ghanaian military on regional challenges. We are improving out military ties through exchanges and Non-Commissioned Officer development,” Townsend said.
“It’s important we grow our partnership with Ghana to advance shared security goals,” he reiterated.
While in Accra, Townsend also met with members of the U.S. Embassy, including Ambassador Stephanie S. Sullivan.
Welcoming General Townsend, Ambassador Sullivan said, “We were pleased to welcome General Townsend, whose visit reaffirmed the broad and longstanding partnership between the United States and Ghana.
“The visit underscored our shared values and the United States’ interest in working together to pursue mutually beneficial security solutions.”
Source: Classfmonline.com
Trending News
'It's no crime' – Abu Sakara defends Alan's NPP exit
12:52You'll pay ₵125 to replace missing Ghana card from May 1
10:28Public schools rebranding: We’re switching to blue and white, we’re painting all schools – Adutwum
08:06Ashanti ECG workers go red, ban managers from security meetings over GM's arrest
12:09'You're childish, diabolic!' – NPP group calls out running mate aspirants ‘manipulating' Bawumia
12:02Mahama’s accusations of partisanship in election official appointments not true, we’re committed to conducting fair elections – EC
07:182024 polls: Our ‘real challenge’ is getting ‘un-bothered’ youth to vote – ARC’s Abu Sakara
12:53Let’s use your billboards for 2024 campaign – NPP begs ex-aspirants
11:34Lands Minister gives FGR deadline to revamp its mining operations; assures workers of commitment to their welfare
17:22World Immunisation Week: Increase in unvaccinated children in Ghana raises concerns
09:31