Accra: The Ghana-China Friendship Association (GHACHIFA) has called for deeper collaboration between Ghana and China to accelerate the country's National Reset Agenda through industrialisation, infrastructure development, technology transfer, and youth empowerment. Mr. Benjamin Anyagre Aziginaateeg, the General Secretary of GHACHIFA, said Ghana's development aspirations aligned with several of China's global development initiatives, presenting opportunities for both countries to strengthen cooperation for mutual benefit.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Anyagre made the call at an inter-party roundtable meeting organised to commemorate the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. He stated that Ghana remained committed to the One China Principle and the three Joint Communiqu©s that have anchored diplomatic relations between the two countries over the years. While diplomatic agreements remain important, he noted that the long-term strength of the bilateral relationship depends on sustained people-to-people cooperation in areas such as education, culture, innovation, investment, technology, youth development, and enterprise.
The GHACHIFA aims to deepen understanding between the peoples of Ghana and China while ensuring that the benefits of bilateral cooperation translate into tangible improvements in citizens' lives. Mr. Anyagre mentioned that Ghana's national reset agenda under President John Dramani Mahama presents an opportunity to revive the country's long-term development vision through strategic partnerships. He recalled the Seven-Year Development Plan introduced by Ghana's first president, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, in 1963, describing it as a bold attempt to industrialise the country through investments in agriculture, infrastructure, education, science, and technology. Although the plan was not fully implemented, its objectives remain relevant and could inform Ghana's current development priorities.
Mr. Anyagre observed that China's Global Development Initiative complements Ghana's aspirations by promoting infrastructure development, industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, technological innovation, quality education, healthcare, and poverty reduction. He emphasized that these areas of cooperation align with Ghana's efforts to create jobs, strengthen local industries, and achieve macroeconomic stability.
Additionally, the General Secretary highlighted the relevance of China's Global Civilisation Initiative, stating that development should be pursued alongside the preservation of national values, cultural identity, and social cohesion. He stressed that Ghana's traditions of community solidarity, respect for traditional leadership, peaceful coexistence, and ethical governance should continue to underpin the country's development agenda.
On security matters, Mr. Anyagre said China's Global Security Initiative presents opportunities for enhanced cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and conflict prevention. He noted that Ghana's reputation as one of Africa's stable democracies positions it as a reliable partner in promoting regional peace and security.
Finally, Mr. Anyagre called for stronger collaboration on global governance reforms, stating that Ghana continues to advocate greater African representation in international decision-making through platforms such as the African Union, ECOWAS, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. He expressed the belief that sustained collaboration with China would help accelerate industrial growth, strengthen institutions, expand opportunities for young people, and build a more resilient and diversified Ghanaian economy.