Ghana has deepened its economic and technological cooperation with Japan following a visit by Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Ayano Kunimitsu, who led a 35-member Japanese business delegation to the country.

Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and President John Dramani Mahama welcomed the delegation, describing the engagements as substantive and mutually beneficial, resulting in several strategic agreements.

The discussions led to commitments to increase Japanese investment in Ghana, enhance access to the Japanese market for Ghanaian companies, and expand operations of Japanese car manufacturing companies in Ghana, including the opening of additional branches.

The delegation also explored cooperation in space technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), building on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by President Mahama during his participation at TICAD 9 in Japan.

Value addition and the promotion of the Ghana Chocolate brand in Japan were also highlighted, with efforts aimed at increasing the brand’s visibility and success in the Japanese market.

Next year, Ghana and Japan will mark three significant milestones: 70 years of diplomatic relations, 100 years since Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s pioneering public health work and ultimate sacrifice in Ghana combating yellow fever, and 50 years of JOC Volunteer contributions.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samueal Okudzeto-Ablakwa, described the visit as a major step in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering sustainable economic growth, innovation, and trade between the two nations.