Guyana and Ghana are in new and continuous talks to deepen their bilateral relations and support engagements between the two countries’ private sectors.
With a visiting Ghanian delegation in Guyana, led by that country’s Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured of benefits for Guyanese.
At a State Dinner at the President’s official residence on Sunday to celebrate the long relationship between Guyana and Ghana, President Ali welcomed what he said was an acceleration of that relation in recent months.
It started when Dr. Ali met with Ghanian President Nana Akufo-Addo on the sidelines of the last United Nations General Assembly; immediately after a timetable of action was established, which also saw Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo visiting Ghana.
Dr. Ali said importantly, there was private sector participation then and now.
“And why is this important, both the Government of Ghana and the Government of Guyana understand that the role of government is a vehicle through which we open up opportunities for the people of our country, the private sector to grow, excel, participate and advance. Our role is just that, to formulate the right policies, to pursue the right opportunities, the right partnerships, the strategic outlook,” he explained.
Dr. Ali said the visit was not just another bilateral engagement, but rather a strategic one with measured outcomes.
“…and when that elaboration is done you will understand the macro framework that we’re pursuing, both countries together with one common intention…that is to bring the best possible life and prosperity for all the peoples of both countries,” the President added.
Meanwhile, Ghanian Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia said the exchange was timely because of the similar challenges the two countries share.
He said it was founded in geography and democracy, but above that the longing for peace. To this end, he called for the two states to join forces and forge a new paradigm.
“We believe that without the private sector playing its proper role, we’re not going to solve many of these problems. Government as the President says, only creates an environment, we have to make sure that interest rates are low, that’s what will help the private sector. The cost of power is low, exchange rates are stable. Now, once you create that macroeconomic environment and make sure that the rule of law works…then the private sector can thrive.”
The Vice-President said he was very excited about the strategic relationship and said more will be revealed in the coming weeks.
Among those attending the state dinner was Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Chancellor Yonnette Cummings-Edwards, SC, Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, Police Commissioner Nigel Hoppie, Chief of Staff Godfrey Bess, the Director of Public Prosecutions Shalimar Ali-Hack, Cabinet Members, members of the diplomatic community and private sector leaders.
