Tuesday, 30 September

Foreign Minister dispels conspiracy theories over Ghana-US visa and trade negotiations

Politics
Minister Ablakwa and his US counterpact

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has dismissed what he described as “conspiracy theories and scaremongering” surrounding Ghana’s recent diplomatic engagements with the United States.

Mr. Ablakwa said Ghana remains the only country to have successfully secured a reversal of US visa restrictions under Trump's administration, a development that has triggered widespread speculation about the nature of ongoing negotiations between the two countries.

Addressing the concerns, the Foreign Minister gave assurances that Ghana’s sovereignty and security remain intact and outlined key clarifications:

Ghana will not be turned into a dumping ground for deportees from the US.

The country is not accepting criminals from the US.

A limited arrangement exists to receive pre-vetted West African nationals without criminal records, in line with ECOWAS free movement protocols, which already allow citizens of member states to enter Ghana without visas.

The bilateral arrangement does not undermine Ghana’s stability or security.

The negotiations go beyond removals, covering issues such as a reassessment of the 15% tariff on Ghana, a potential special trade deal, new opportunities for US investment, and the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which is critical to Ghana’s garment sector.

He emphasised that the talks are “mutually beneficial” and firmly guided by Ghana’s strategic national interest.

 

“The Mahama Administration deeply cares for Ghanaians.

We shall keep working tirelessly to protect our national interest, and we will ensure our best efforts benefit all citizens,” Mr. Ablakwa assured.

Source: Classfmonline.com/cecil Mensah