Ghana envisions a thriving, value-added, and modernized industrial economy that stands independent of the prevailing global economic order, devoid of victimhood or dependency. During the bilateral meeting with his Portuguese counterpart, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of nurturing stronger trade and investment ties with Portugal and the international community.
A pivotal aspect of their discussion revolved around addressing global challenges and working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to create a better world for all. President Akufo-Addo expressed deep satisfaction with the Ghana-Portugal Business Forum, scheduled for today, anticipating its significant contribution to their joint investment endeavors. He firmly believed that this forum would elevate trade volumes and bring prosperity to both nations. In forging a strong alliance with Portugal, President Akufo-Addo assured President De Sousa that Ghana would actively collaborate in finding solutions to various challenges, such as eradicating widespread poverty, eliminating irregular migration, curbing insecurity and human rights violations, tackling terrorism and violent extremism, and countering human and drug trafficking, piracy, and the impact of climate change on the environment and livelihoods.
Drawing on historical lessons, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the potential of a mutually beneficial trade partnership. He stressed that genuine prosperity arises from fair trade practices, where a wealthy trading partner engages with an equitable trading system, rather than exploiting a weaker counterpart. In his mission to Lisbon, President Akufo-Addo passionately advocated for increased investments and trade between Ghana and Portugal. He acknowledged the evolution of their trade relations throughout history and emphasized the need for a new paradigm that centers on Ghana’s transformation from a mere raw material exporter to a dynamic, value-adding industrial economy.
President Akufo-Addo’s vision is for Ghana to ascend to the higher echelons of the global value chain, trading in products manufactured within the nation’s boundaries. This transformation would enable Ghana to assert its position as a strong player in the global economic landscape.
