Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister receives Ethiopian Deputy Head of Mission, calls for enhanced trade ties

The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Member of Parliament for Assin North, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson, welcomed Ambassador Asaye Alemayehu Deijenie, the Deputy Head of Mission of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration in Accra on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025.

The diplomatic engagement centered on deepening the longstanding ties between Ghana and Ethiopia—two nations whose historical bond predates their respective independence. Both parties recognized the rich legacy of political solidarity, shared values, and Pan-Africanism that have historically defined their relationship.

However, they emphasized the urgent need to move beyond traditional diplomatic ties and invest in concrete socio-economic collaboration, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. Hon. Quayson and Ambassador Dejenie agreed that despite strong political relations, there remains untapped potential in the economic space that must be urgently harnessed for mutual benefit.

They also identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key platform for leveraging the economic strengths of both countries. With Ghana hosting the AfCFTA Secretariat, both parties noted that now is the time to drive meaningful intra-African trade by encouraging private sector collaboration, investment in value-added industries, and cultural exchanges.

The meeting further underscored the importance of existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Ghana and Ethiopia, which they described as a strong framework to guide future bilateral cooperation. Both sides pledged to activate and expand these agreements to promote more robust economic diplomacy, youth and educational exchanges, and tourism.

Hon. Gyakye Quayson reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Ethiopia and welcomed increased diplomatic and economic engagements in the months ahead.