President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana has trumpeted the need for deeper collaboration and mutual growth between Africa and South Korea.
The president gave this clarion call at the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, ongoing in the South Korean capital of Seoul.
Addressing a distinguished audience, including Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and other Heads of State and Government, President Akufo-Addo outlined a vision of shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity under the summit’s theme, “The Future We Make Together.”
In his remarks, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Korea, established nearly fifty years ago in 1977. The Ghanaian leader praised the collaborative spirit that has characterized this partnership and expressed hope for its continued strength.
He pointed to significant progress in economic cooperation, with increased trade volumes and successful joint ventures in manufacturing, agriculture, and information technology.
However, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged that more work is needed to remove trade barriers, enhance infrastructure, and promote knowledge exchange to unlock the full potential of this partnership.
Addressing the global climate crisis, President Akufo-Addo called for sustainable practices to protect the environment and promote renewable energy. He praised Korea’s leadership in green technology and sustainable development, urging Africa to leverage these innovations.
The President emphasized the need for global solidarity, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global challenges. He highlighted the importance of supporting one another to ensure collective resilience. President Akufo-Addo referenced Korea’s recent trilateral meeting with Japan and China, noting its significance for Africa.
President Akufo-Addo called for collaboration in research and development, advancing digital literacy, and promoting entrepreneurship to harness the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution.
President Akufo-Addo expressed confidence in the future of Africa-Korea relations. “The future we make together should be one of shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity,” he declared. He urged both regions to seize the moment to deepen their collaboration and build a brighter, more prosperous future.
The 2024 Korea-Africa Summit wraps up on Wednesday with various sessions aimed at strengthening ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation during the Korea-Africa Business Summit, where heads of state or government and business leaders of Korea and Africa will jointly participate.
