Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister responsible for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has called for deeper collaboration with the European Union on pressing issues of regional security, humane migration policies, and accelerated green growth initiatives.
Delivering a speech at the 2025 Ghana -European Union Partnership Dialogue, Hon. Ablakwa outlined Ghana’s priorities for strengthening its ties with its largest multilateral development trade partner.
Commending the EU for its recent advancements in security equipment, he highlighted the vital role of peace and security in the bilateral engagement. He emphasized the enhancement of Ghana’s capacity to address internal security challenges and contribute to safeguarding peace across West Africa through intelligence sharing and strategic equipment provided under the European Regional Peace Plan.
“Advances in security in Ghana and the broader West Africa sub-region remains a priority,” he asserted, stressing the need for continued EU support to confront conflicts and threats from the Sahara and the Gulf of Guinea.
On migration and human mobility, the Minister emphasized the importance of humane, orderly, and mutually beneficial frameworks. He called for investment in youth empowerment, skills development, and the protection of migrants’ rights, viewing migration as a driver of socio-economic goals.
Hon. Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and human dignity of all its nationals and migrants, in line with the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. He urged dialogue with the EU to explore alternatives to detention, ensure humane reception systems that do not criminalize migration, and provide support for stranded migrants, victims of trafficking, and those affected by irregular migration attempts, advocating for legal aid, healthcare access, and decent working conditions.
He also made an appeal for logistical support from the EU as Ghana continues its evacuation efforts for citizens in Iran and Israel following recent conflicts.
Regarding green growth and sustainability, Sammy Ablakwa stressed the urgency of accelerating cooperation to meet ambitious targets set under the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, stressing on Ghana’s strategic initiatives in renewable energy and environmental conservation, bolstered by EU support. He appealed for further EU support for climate and green funds, as well as funding from the carbon market, to bolster Ghana’s growth and environmental sustainability efforts.
He also sought the EU’s most sincere support for President Mahama’s “ruthless and uncompromising fight against the menace of illegal mining “
He expressed confidence that the dialogue would lead to tangible benefits for both communities, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to working closely with the European Union in a spirit of partnership, mutual respect, and solidarity.
Story By: Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
