President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghana’s ambassadors and high commissioners to project the nation’s leadership on the global stage by actively promoting national interests.
Speaking at the opening of the Annual Heads of Mission Conference in Accra under the theme “Harnessing the Dividends of Diplomacy for Ghana’s Reset Agenda”, the President said Ghana’s global standing must be earned, not assumed.
“From the days of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who envisioned a united and influential Africa, Ghana has sought not merely to participate in global affairs but to shape them. That legacy now rests upon you,” President Mahama told the envoys.
He further charged diplomats to reorient Ghana’s foreign policy focus towards economic diplomacy, stating “The distinction between foreign and domestic policy has become increasingly blurred in today’s interconnected world. The agreements you secure in Brussels, Beijing, or Washington will reverberate in Tamale, Kumasi, Ho, and Accra. For this reason, economic diplomacy is now the cornerstone of Ghana’s foreign policy,” he stressed.
Reaffirming Ghana’s Pan-African credentials, the President pledged continued support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as “the foundation for Africa’s industrialization.” He also reminded envoys that their success would be measured not by protocol but by results.
“Your success is going to be measured not by ceremonial protocol, but by the scale of investment, trade, and opportunities you help secure for the people of Ghana,” President Mahama emphasized.
On his part, the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, called on envoys to embody Ghana’s values abroad, advising that “In this crucial era of our global history, diplomacy has transcended statecraft and evolved into a strategic engine of opportunities. Your conduct must be a reflection of Ghana’s values of integrity, respect, hospitality, and discipline, blending strategic insights with heartfelt national pride.”
The Ga Mantse further urged diplomats to champion Ghanaian products and the diaspora, adding that “You must prioritize trade, business, investments, and development through strategic partnerships that are equitable and sustainable. Seek opportunities to promote Ghanaian products from textiles and traditional symbols to food and tourism, positioning Ghana as a trusted partner in global commerce.”
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that Ghana currently operates 75 missions abroad, comprising 13 high commissions, 48 embassies and 14 consulates.
He revealed that government has approved the establishment of new consulates in Singapore, Ireland, Portugal and the United States.
“We currently have 28 career diplomats and 34 non-career diplomats serving in ambassadorial positions,” Ablakwa noted, adding that the five-day conference will orient envoys on their missions abroad.
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Source: Afote Asomdwoe Laryea/Frederick Kofi Thompson-Quartey/ATLFMNEWS
