President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday, August 20, held bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on the sidelines of the ongoing Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) in Japan.

The meeting focused on strengthening diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the longstanding Ghana–Japan partnership, with emphasis on boosting investment, trade, and collaboration in international development.

Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his condolences over the tragic accident on August 6 that claimed the lives of eight people, including Ghana’s Ministers of Defense and Environment.

He underscored Japan’s determination to advance its partnership with Ghana, noting President Mahama’s past experience working at the Japanese Embassy in Accra as a foundation for closer ties.

President Mahama, in turn, expressed gratitude for Japan’s solidarity during Ghana’s moment of grief.

Discussions also highlighted Japan’s support for African development through its startups in agriculture, education, and health, as well as investments in infrastructure.

Prime Minister Ishiba appealed for Ghana’s cooperation in addressing challenges faced by Japanese businesses operating in the country.

President Mahama welcomed Japan’s past contributions through TICAD and pledged to work toward stronger bilateral relations in both economic and international affairs.

The leaders agreed to further deepen ties ahead of key milestones in 2027: the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s voyage to Ghana, the 60th anniversary of Ghana–Japan diplomatic relations, and the 50th anniversary of the dispatch of JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers.

President Mahama also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for increased Japanese investment, while both leaders exchanged views on regional and global challenges, agreeing to strengthen cooperation for peace and growth.

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

On Thursday, the two leaders are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding as part of TICAD-9 before President Mahama delivers his official address at the plenary session.