Kyiv: Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, has made an official visit to Ukraine to engage in discussions with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy concerning the protection of two Ghanaian nationals detained as prisoners of war and to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister was welcomed in Kyiv by President Zelenskyy, where the talks centered around Ghana's humanitarian appeal for the release of the two citizens. The discussions highlighted the necessity to ensure their rights are upheld in accordance with international law and humanitarian conventions. Mr Ablakwa communicated the Government of Ghana's concerns for the welfare of its nationals and expressed gratitude to Ukrainian authorities for their assurances regarding the protection of these individuals.
Ukrainian authorities revealed, based on credible intelligence, that 1,780 Africans from 36 countries have allegedly been drawn in by criminal trafficking networks to participate in the conflict against Ukraine. Within this group, 272 Ghanaians are believed to have been recruited since 2022. Reports indicate that approximately 55 have been killed, while two remain prisoners of war. These figures have raised alarms over the operations of transnational trafficking syndicates targeting vulnerable youth with deceptive promises and financial incentives.
Mr Ablakwa presented a message of appreciation from President John Dramani Mahama to President Zelenskyy for the attention given to this issue. The discussions also addressed the increasing threat of transnational trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable youth across Africa, luring them into conflict situations under false pretenses. Both parties emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation through intelligence-sharing and public awareness initiatives to dismantle these networks and prevent further exploitation.
Beyond addressing consular issues, the talks explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, defense, education, and trade, reaffirming their commitment to expanding diplomatic engagement and forging mutually beneficial partnerships. Mr Ablakwa expressed optimism that ongoing engagements would bring about positive outcomes and reiterated the Government's dedication to safeguarding the interests and dignity of Ghanaians abroad.
The visit, as stated by the Minister, underscores the Government's determination to prioritize the protection of its citizens and advance Ghana's foreign policy objectives. President Zelenskyy extended an invitation to President Mahama to visit Kyiv, as part of efforts to fortify diplomatic ties between the two nations.