Ghana and China strengthen 65 years of friendship with fresh promises

Both leaders met at the sidelines of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, hosted by China.

A key area of focus at the meeting centered on trade tariffs, which China had promised to all African countries months ago.

During the meeting, the Chinese leader noted that this year marks the 65th anniversary of both countries’ diplomatic relations.

He asserted that China continually adheres to the values of sincerity, tangible results, amity, and good faith, as seen on China’s Embassy Website.

President Xi Jinping also noted that China and Ghana will collaborate to improve political mutual trust and provide support for one another on matters pertaining to their shared core interests and key concerns.

In response, the Ghanaian president noted that the meeting was very important and demonstrated how China is leading the world in supporting women’s rights.

President John Mahama lauded China’s significant support and assistance to Ghana through the FOCAC and Belt and Road cooperation, saying that the two countries had friendly and historic relations.

He also commented on China’s zero-tariff initiative to all African countries, of which Ghana’s is set to benefit from this month.

“We have reached an agreement in principle, and we have targeted the end of October to sign onto the zero-tariff principle,” President Mahama stated.

President John Mahama also disclosed that Ghana is keen on advancing bilateral relations with China by enhancing partnerships in the areas of trade, digital economy, infrastructure, energy, mining, and people-to-people interactions.

In August, Tong Deta, China’s ambassador to Ghana, reiterated China’s pledge to provide zero-tariff access to goods from Ghana and fifty-two other partner nations.

His assertions at the time followed the United States’ decision to impose a 15% tariff on imports from Ghana and several other African nations.

“China is still offering zero tariffs to all 53 countries that have diplomatic ties with China. We believe this policy has proven helpful. It benefits both China and Ghana,” Ambassador Tong stated.

“The two government agencies are currently discussing the detailed arrangement. Both governments are accelerating efforts to determine how to implement the zero-tariff policy,” he added.