Portugal's President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, praised Ghana for its strong democratic culture and outstanding commitment to the rule of law, political stability, and peaceful coexistence.
“Ghana is not just another country in Africa. You are very special,” President Rebelo de Sousa noted during a joint press conference with Ghana's President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in Lisbon, Portugal.
President Akufo-Addo is on a three-day State visit aimed at consolidating the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries. The visit's agenda is to enhance political, cultural, and socio-economic exchanges between the people.
Ghana seeks to strengthen cooperation at the multilateral level, promote a better world, and address global issues related to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Portugal has historical ties with Ghana dating back to the 15th Century, making it the European nation with the longest-existing relations with Ghana.
President Rebelo de Sousa expressed Portugal's commitment to doing business with Ghana, as both countries share development experiences and address common global challenges.
President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude to the Portuguese Government for supporting Ghana's voice and interests within the European Union.
The State visit is seen as an opportunity to enhance economic engagement, increase trade volumes, and foster development. Ghana aims to deepen cooperation with Portugal to reduce poverty and address issues like irregular migration, insecurity, human rights violations, climate change, terrorism, piracy, and human trafficking.