Seoul: President John Dramani Mahama on Wednesday held bilateral talks with his South Korean counterpart, President Lee Jae Myung, in Seoul, South Korea. The two leaders agreed to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, maritime security, climate change, and agriculture.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama arrived in South Korea on Tuesday, March 10, for a five-day working visit, marking the first visit by an African leader since President Lee took office in June 2025. During the talks, President Mahama emphasized the historic relations between Ghana and Korea, highlighting their shared values and a strong focus on agriculture and agribusiness to achieve food security.
President Mahama noted the deep respect for democracy and human rights shared by both countries, explaining that their relationship transcends geographical distance. He underscored the importance of cooperation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in increasing rice production through the K-Rice Belt Project, aiming to reduce rice imports by expanding production of high-yielding rice varieties.
He also spoke about the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with its secretariat based in Accra, which opens up a market of about 1.4 billion people. President Mahama expressed Ghana's goal to become a hub for production and exports across Africa, leveraging its abundant natural and human resources alongside Korea's technology and innovation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
President Mahama expressed gratitude for the chocolates received from President Lee, sharing that he also brought Ghanaian chocolates for both leaders to enjoy. He discussed the challenges faced by cocoa production due to climate change and the importance of adding value to cocoa products for export.
Additionally, President Mahama mentioned the exploitation of resources such as bauxite, manganese, gold, and newly discovered reserves of lithium, nickel, and other rare minerals. He emphasized the potential for collaboration with Korea in adding value to these resources before exporting.
The discussions also addressed maritime security, with both countries focusing on the issue of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. President Mahama highlighted the significance of a memorandum on maritime safety and cooperation to be signed.
President Mahama concluded by addressing Ghana's recent financial crisis recovery, noting successful debt restructuring and economic stabilization. He expressed optimism about accessing the Economic Development Cooperation Fund and anticipated signing a visa waiver agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders.
President Lee expressed appreciation for the growing trade and investment ties between South Korea and Ghana, viewing Ghana as a major gateway to the African market. He acknowledged Ghana's cooperation in ensuring the safety of Korean nationals in the Gulf of Guinea amidst piracy threats.