Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has met with his Jamaican counterpart, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, in Kingston, Jamaica, ahead of President John Dramani Mahama's historic state visit to the Caribbean nation. The meeting marked a crucial step in preparations for President Mahama's visit, which was extended by Jamaican Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness.
Preparations Underway for President Mahama's Visit
The meeting between the two Foreign Ministers expressed optimism about deepening cooperation between Ghana and Jamaica in areas including trade, culture, maritime affairs, education, health, and other sectors of mutual interest. Minister Ablakwa thanked the Jamaican government for the warm reception and said Ghana was honoured to accept the invitation extended by Prime Minister Holness.
Programme of Activities for President Mahama's Visit
Senator Johnson Smith outlined activities planned for the state visit, including President Mahama's address to a joint sitting of Jamaica's Parliament, which she described as one of the highlights of state visits. The programme will also include a visit to Seville, a heritage site where Ghana's delegation will learn about Jamaica's African heritage and the history of the transatlantic slave trade. Additionally, President Mahama will lay a wreath at the shrine of Jamaica's first national hero, the Right Honourable Marcus Garvey, whom Senator Johnson Smith noted had influence on Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.
Bilateral Relations and Reparations Agenda
Minister Ablakwa expressed appreciation for what he described as a carefully planned programme and said President Mahama was excited about the visit. He added that the President would also hold bilateral engagements with Prime Minister Holness, the leader of the opposition, and other stakeholders. The Foreign Affairs Minister further disclosed that President Mahama would endorse Jamaica's petition on the reparations agenda, reaffirming Ghana's support for the shared pursuit of justice.
Conclusion
The meeting between Minister Ablakwa and Senator Johnson Smith has laid the groundwork for a successful and meaningful visit by President Mahama to Jamaica. With a carefully planned programme and a strong commitment to bilateral relations, the visit promises to be a historic engagement that will strengthen ties between Ghana and Jamaica. As President Mahama prepares to arrive in Jamaica, the two countries look forward to continuing their collaboration and working together towards a common goal.
Source: Joy Online
