The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Cong Song, and a delegation from the Chinese Embassy have paid a courtesy visit to the Minister for Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, at the Ministry of Defence.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Ghana and China to reaffirm their longstanding bilateral relationship and explore new opportunities to strengthen defence and security cooperation between the two countries.
Ghana Seeks Stronger Defence Partnership with China
Welcoming the Chinese Ambassador and his delegation, Defence Minister Kenneth Gilbert Adjei said Ghana-China relations have been built on longstanding cooperation across several sectors, including security and defence.
He described the relationship as strategic and expressed Ghana’s readiness to deepen cooperation with China in emerging areas such as renewable energy and advanced technology.
The Minister emphasised the need for balanced and sustainable development that delivers mutual benefits to both Ghana and China.
He also acknowledged the growing contribution of Chinese companies and businesses to Ghana’s economic development, noting their role in supporting various sectors of the Ghanaian economy.
China Supports Ghana Armed Forces
Kenneth Gilbert Adjei commended China for its continued support towards improving the operational readiness and capabilities of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
According to the Defence Minister, China has supported the Ghana Armed Forces through professional military training, technological advancement and the provision of essential equipment.
He specifically expressed appreciation for China’s assistance in aviation and ground equipment, the construction of modern housing facilities and the installation of advanced technological systems for the Ghana Armed Forces.
The Minister said such support has contributed to strengthening Ghana’s defence capabilities and improving the operational effectiveness of the military.
China Announces 81 Training Opportunities for Ghanaian Officers
Chinese Ambassador Cong Song reaffirmed his country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and strategic partnership with Ghana, particularly in the area of defence cooperation.
He highlighted China’s assistance to the Ghana Armed Forces in areas including professional training, military equipment, technology, infrastructure development, maritime support and peacekeeping operations.
The Ambassador disclosed that the Chinese Government has made available 81 slots for Ghanaian military officers to travel to China to broaden their knowledge, professional experience and exposure in defence and security matters.
The initiative is expected to provide Ghanaian military personnel with additional opportunities to gain expertise and strengthen cooperation between the armed forces of both countries.
Ghana and China Explore Regional Security Cooperation
Ambassador Cong Song also proposed stronger collaboration in security and defence to help address emerging security threats across the sub-Saharan African region.
He further called for greater cooperation in the defence industry, an area that could provide opportunities for both countries to expand technical and institutional collaboration.
The discussions reflect growing interest in strengthening Ghana-China security relations amid evolving regional security challenges.
Chinese Naval Hospital Ship to Visit Ghana
As part of China’s broader engagement with Ghana, Ambassador Cong Song announced that a Chinese naval hospital ship is expected to arrive in Ghana in October.
The vessel will provide medical services to Ghanaians during its visit.
The Ambassador also invited Defence Minister Kenneth Gilbert Adjei to participate in the opening ceremony of the naval hospital ship’s activities.
The planned visit is expected to further deepen cooperation between Ghana and China while providing medical support to communities.
The engagement between the Defence Minister and the Chinese Ambassador underscores the importance of Ghana-China bilateral relations, particularly in defence, security, military training, technology, maritime cooperation and other areas of mutual interest.
Source: newsthemegh.com