Ghana, US strengthen ties through visas, trade, and security cooperation

Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has reported a “very constructive” meeting with Acting US Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Rolf Olson, highlighting progress in bilateral relations between the two countries.

“We assessed recent positive strides in our bilateral relations including the restoration of 5-year Visas for Ghanaians, the removal of President Trump’s 15% tariffs on cocoa, semi-processed cocoa and other qualifying agricultural products, arrangements for World Cup soccer fans and the exemption of Ghana from last week’s Trump Green Card Review and immigration suspension policy,” Ablakwa posted on Facebook.

The Minister also emphasised enhanced security cooperation under the longstanding bilateral Defence Cooperation Agreement.

“Ghana and the United States have increased intelligence sharing and training activities with the coordinated use of U.S. military aviation assets.

Ghana welcomes this collaboration with the United States on our shared security priorities. Aviation activities will always be coordinated with the appropriate government authorities,” he added.

On trade, Ablakwa expressed optimism regarding the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) negotiations, noting that Ghana-US relations will “continue to prioritise the best deals for the people we serve,” with the country’s strategic national interest guiding the partnership.