Accra: The United States Government has commended its collaboration with Ghana, describing it as 'extraordinary' and highlighting significant progress in key areas such as security, health, trade, migration, and the rule of law. This announcement underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations, which is rooted in mutual interests and democratic values.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Rolf Olsen, the Charg© d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, emphasized the consistent engagement with Ghana's leadership, making the country a reliable partner for the United States in West Africa. This statement was made during a policy interaction in Accra, where Mr. Will Stevens, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for West Africa at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of African Affairs, outlined Washington's priorities and evolving cooperation framework with Ghana.
Ghana's strong political will and institutional cooperation in areas like law enforcement and the fight against transnational crime have significantly bolstered bilateral trust. Mr. Olsen cited the extradition of nine individuals to the United States within a year as a notable achievement in judicial and law enforcement cooperation, particularly in combating cybercrime and elder fraud.
On the economic front, Mr. Olsen pointed to a rapidly expanding trade relationship, with trade figures rising from about $2 billion to between $3.5 billion and $4 billion in recent years. American companies, such as Newmont Corporation, are major contributors to Ghana's economy, with Newmont being the largest taxpayer in the country.
Mr. Stevens addressed the issue of tariffs, noting that while Ghanaian exports to the U.S. face low barriers, American exports to Ghana encounter relatively high tariffs. He advocated for a more reciprocal trade environment and mentioned Washington's pursuit of a one-year 'clean renewal' of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) to facilitate the development of a new trade framework.
In the health sector, which receives substantial U.S. assistance, ongoing negotiations aim to establish a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding for future cooperation. The U.S. is working with Ghana to develop a sustainable health financing model, aligning with President Mahama's vision of national responsibility for healthcare.
Regarding development finance and infrastructure, Mr. Stevens highlighted public-private partnerships like the Lobito Corridor as examples of catalytic investment. These initiatives involve U.S. government tools and institutions such as the U.S. Development Finance Corporation and the Export-Import Bank.
Addressing concerns about Ghana's eligibility for U.S. assistance due to sovereign debt issues, officials clarified that discussions with the Ghanaian government have been productive, with several payments made, and expressed optimism about concluding the restructuring process soon.
On migration, Mr. Stevens praised Ghana's cooperation in accepting the return of its nationals and working constructively with U.S. authorities. He expressed confidence in Ghana's ability to manage migration-related issues in accordance with human rights and due process.
In summary, Mr. Stevens affirmed Ghana's alignment with U.S. priorities in security, migration, health, and trade, reinforcing the strong and forward-looking bilateral relationship between the two countries.