Accra: The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Ghana, as the two nations marked Korea's National Day in Accra with renewed pledges of friendship, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. Ambassador Park Kyongsig of the Republic of Korea, addressing an audience of government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, and the Ghanaian-Korean community, reflected on the significance of the day, which commemorates the founding of Korea by the legendary Dan-gun.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ambassador Park highlighted the philosophy of Dan-gun, which emphasizes 'widely benefiting mankind,' as a guiding principle in Korea's global relations, including its ties with Ghana. He noted the significance of 2025 as a turning point for bilateral relations, coinciding with the recent inaugurations of President Lee Jae-myung in Korea and President John Dramani Mahama in Ghana. The Ambassador expressed hope that these new administrations would open a new era of cooperation and friendship.
A notable development in the diplomatic landscape is the nomination of Kojo Choi, a Korean-born naturalised Ghanaian citizen, as Ghana's Ambassador-designate to Korea. Ambassador Park described this as a clear symbol of the close ties between the two nations and a catalyst for deepening cooperation. The National Day celebration featured vibrant cultural exchanges, including authentic Korean cuisine, traditional hanbok attire, and games popularized by the series Squid Game. Live K-Pop performances underscored the growing influence of Korean culture in Ghana.
Ambassador Park praised the economic cooperation between the two countries, citing the expansion of Korean businesses in Ghana and their potential to serve as a hub for the West African region. He referenced Ghana's economic growth prospects under policies like the Big Push initiative and opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The two nations are working towards a Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Climate Change, which is expected to address climate issues while creating jobs and government revenue for Ghana.
Development cooperation remains strong, with Korea supporting projects in health, agriculture, education, and the environment through agencies such as KOICA, KOFIH, and the Korean Exim Bank. Korea's provision of five million dollars last December through the World Food Programme to assist northern Ghana's drought-affected farmers was highlighted as a significant contribution.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. James Gyakye Quayson, congratulated Korea on its National Foundation Day and commended Ambassador Park for his hospitality. He emphasized the enduring philosophy of benefiting humanity, which underpins Korea's nationhood and resonates with Ghana. He also lauded Korea's commitment to the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and ongoing projects supported by KOICA and KOFIH, which align with Ghana's economic revitalization agenda.
Citing the allocation of 43 million dollars in Official Development Assistance to Ghana this year, with 32 million earmarked for 2025 projects, Mr. Quayson highlighted the impact of Korean support, including the establishment of a KIA vehicle assembly plant in 2023. He noted Ghana's role as host of the AfCFTA Secretariat, offering a gateway to a unified African market, and emphasized Korea's support for regional integration and inclusive growth.
The Deputy Minister welcomed Korea's support for Ghana's resilience agenda, particularly in food security and climate change, and praised cultural exchanges for fostering mutual understanding. Looking ahead, he envisioned deeper collaboration in digital innovation, renewable energy, technical and vocational education, and creative industries.
In conclusion, the Deputy Foreign Minister assured Korea of Ghana's readiness to work closely in multilateral forums like the United Nations to promote peace-building and sustainable development.