Ghana and Jamaica have once again underscored their determination to strengthen bilateral cooperation as preparations continue for President John Dramani Mahama’s upcoming state visit to the Caribbean country.
Ahead of the visit, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, met with Jamaica’s Foreign Minister, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, in Kingston.
Senator Johnson Smith welcomed Mr. Ablakwa and said Jamaica is looking forward to hosting President Mahama during the country’s Emancipation and Independence celebrations. She also noted that arrangements for his arrival are already generating strong national interest.
Mr. Ablakwa commended Jamaica for the warm reception and reiterated that Ghana is preparing for what he described as a meaningful and impactful visit at the invitation of Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness.
Both foreign ministers reviewed the deep historical, cultural, and diplomatic links between the two nations, expressing confidence that the relationship will grow further through collaboration in areas of shared priority.
Senator Johnson Smith outlined that President Mahama’s programme will include prominent engagements, including an address to a joint sitting of Jamaica’s Parliament and a wreath-laying ceremony at the shrine of Jamaica’s national hero, Marcus Garvey.
Mr. Ablakwa added that the visit is expected to offer Ghana and Jamaica an opportunity to further strengthen ties and advance shared objectives, including discussions related to reparatory justice.
He said President Mahama is eager to participate in the high-profile engagements, emphasizing the significance of him becoming the first Ghanaian president to address Jamaica’s Parliament during a state visit.
The meeting is expected to lay the groundwork for broader high-level discussions during President Mahama’s time in Jamaica, with cooperation expected to expand across areas such as trade, culture, maritime affairs, education, health, and other sectors of mutual interest.
