Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Holds Talks with Visiting Japanese Foreign Minister

Accra: Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has held bilateral talks with the visiting Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister, Madam Kunimitsu Ayano, in Accra. According to Ghana News Agency, the meeting was attended by Mr. Hiroshi Yoshimoto, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, and representatives of Japanese investor groups. Joining them were Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Sampson Ahi, Ghana's Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry. A statement from the Office of the Vice President revealed that the discussions centered on diplomacy, trade, and partnerships that are grounded in mutual benefit. Vice President Prof Opoku-Agyemang conveyed her congratulations to Sanae Takaichi, Japan's first female Prime Minister, while reaffirming Ghana's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The discussions are timely as Ghana and Japan approach significant milestones in 2027, marking 100 years since Dr. Hideyo Noguchi's contributions in Ghana, 70 years o f formal diplomatic relations, and 50 years of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers' activities in the country. The talks also addressed expanding economic cooperation amid Ghana's positive economic outlook, emphasizing the spirit of reciprocity in diplomacy. Following President John Dramani Mahama's visit to Japan last year, Vice President Prof Opoku-Agyemang reiterated Ghana's readiness to collaborate with Japanese companies to forge partnerships that deliver tangible benefits. She highlighted Ghana's dedication to processing natural resources domestically, enhancing skills and industry, and creating sustainable employment. The Vice President stressed the necessity of regularly reviewing operations and adapting to the evolving global landscape to address existing gaps and explore new opportunities. Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of balanced partnerships, aiming to expand opportunities for Ghanaian businesses in Japan while supporting continued Japanese investment in Ghana, thereby foster ing a relationship built on shared prosperity.