Accra: President John Dramani Mahama is actively working to reintegrate Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as disclosed by Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. These three countries exited the West African bloc in January following their refusal to comply with ECOWAS demands to restore diplomatic rule, subsequently forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) under military juntas.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ablakwa revealed that President Mahama has already initiated engagement with the three countries. He has appointed a special envoy and is planning state visits in the coming weeks to facilitate their return to ECOWAS. Mr. Ablakwa expressed confidence in President Mahama’s ability to achieve this reintegration, emphasizing the importance of unity in the region for the well-being of its people.
The Minister noted that while breakaway movements are not new on the African continent, a united front remains crucial. He cited historical precedents like the Ghana-Mali-Guinea union as examples of regional collaboration. Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy, promoting friendship with all countries while avoiding entanglement in external conflicts.
Moreover, Mr. Ablakwa mentioned Ghana’s openness to joining other regional and global blocs, such as BRICS, if conditions are favorable. The BRICS bloc, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents significant global economic and demographic power. Recently, Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia joined BRICS, highlighting its growing influence.
Security considerations will also play a vital role in Ghana’s foreign policy, aiming to protect its citizens from external threats, including terrorism. Mr. Ablakwa expressed the importance of expanding partnerships and building relationships to avoid restrictions and limitations in the global arena.