Accra: Ghana and Gabon have highlighted the necessity for African communities to collaboratively tackle xenophobic attacks and other forms of discrimination that jeopardize the unity and progress of the continent. President John Dramani Mahama and his visiting Gabonese counterpart, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, emphasized their dedication to maintaining close consultation and coordination within the African Union, the United Nations, the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, and other multilateral platforms to further Africa's collective interests.
According to Ghana News Agency, the two leaders made this call following the conclusion of their bilateral talks on the first day of President Nguema's three-day state visit to Ghana, invited by President Mahama. A communique issued at the meeting's end reaffirmed their commitment to the objectives of the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. They recognized the importance of collective African action in promoting peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
The leaders exchanged views on various regional, continental, and international developments. They reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the African Union's Constitutive Act and the United Nations Charter, pledging to work collaboratively to promote peace, security, constitutional governance, democracy, the rule of law, and sustainable development across Africa. President Mahama praised Gabon's ongoing efforts towards national development, economic transformation, and regional stability, while President Nguema commended Ghana's dedication to democratic governance and regional peace.
During his visit, President Nguema participated in a tree planting ceremony at Jubilee House, symbolizing the enduring friendship between Ghana and Gabon. He also paid homage to Ghana's first President, Kwame Nkrumah, at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, recognizing his legacy as a champion of Pan-Africanism.
Both Heads of State expressed satisfaction with the visit's outcomes and reaffirmed their determination to strengthen bilateral relations by implementing the understandings reached during their discussions. President Mahama expressed gratitude for President Nguema's visit, while President Nguema appreciated the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He also invited President Mahama for an official visit to Gabon, which was accepted with appreciation.