The European Union and Ghana have marked 50 years of diplomatic partnership with a high-profile Europe Day 2026 Reception in Accra under the theme, “Golden Bridges.”
The event brought together senior government officials, diplomats, traditional authorities, development partners and private sector leaders to commemorate five decades of cooperation between Ghana and the EU. The celebration highlighted the longstanding relationship between both parties in areas including governance, trade, security, infrastructure, health and sustainable development.
Among the dignitaries present were the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, who represented the Government of Ghana, as well as the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, and the Buipewura, Abdulai Jinapor, Paramount Chief of the Buipe Traditional Area.
Speaking at the reception, the European Union Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, described the anniversary as a celebration of a successful partnership founded on shared values, dialogue and cooperation.
He noted that EU-Ghana relations had evolved into a mature strategic partnership anchored on democracy, peace, security and sustainable development. According to him, the EU remains Ghana’s leading development and security partner, its largest investor and top export market.
Ambassador Skinnebach also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional peace and stability, revealing that more than 30 security initiatives worth over EUR100 million are currently being implemented in Ghana.
On behalf of the Ghanaian government, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey congratulated the EU and its Member States on the milestone, describing the relationship as one built on trust, mutual respect and shared values.
She highlighted the broad scope of cooperation between Ghana and the EU, spanning agriculture, education, governance, investment, health and security. The Minister also welcomed the EU’s Global Gateway initiative and reiterated Ghana’s commitment to promoting transparency, innovation and macroeconomic stability to attract sustainable investment.
The reception also showcased Europe’s cultural diversity through culinary exhibitions from 14 EU Member States. A major highlight of the evening was a live performance by celebrated Ghanaian musician Kojo Antwi, popularly known as “Mr. Music Man,” whose performance added excitement to the celebration.
As both Ghana and the European Union commemorated the historic anniversary, officials expressed optimism about the future of the partnership and pledged to further strengthen the “golden bridges” connecting their peoples and economies.
Story By: Eric Boateng
