Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed hope that Ghana will soon benefit from China’s zero-tariff trade policy for African nations, as the two countries mark 65 years of diplomatic relations.
President Xi made the remarks during bilateral talks with Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama in Beijing. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, which President Mahama is attending.
President Xi said China remained committed to strengthening ties with Ghana and the wider African continent, calling for deeper cooperation in areas such as mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and fisheries.
He said both countries should work together to implement the outcomes of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, which was held in Beijing last year.
“China is ready to support Ghana in turning its resource wealth into long-term, sustainable development,” Xi said, adding that he looked forward to Ghana accessing China’s zero-tariff market access programme designed for African countries.
The policy allows for duty-free access for a wide range of goods from eligible African nations, aimed at boosting exports and trade balance.
President Mahama thanked China for hosting the women’s summit, describing the event as “highly significant” and a reflection of China’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
He reaffirmed Ghana’s support for the One-China policy and welcomed opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and governance.
The Ghanaian leader also reiterated his country’s support for global governance reforms, emphasising the need for fairness and equity in international relations.
The meeting is seen as a reaffirmation of the long-standing relationship between Ghana and China, which has grown in recent years through trade, infrastructure deals, and diplomatic exchanges.
Both leaders voiced confidence in the future of their partnership, pledging to work towards a more dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship.
Source:TheDotNews