President John Dramani Mahama has called for a new era of economic cooperation between Africa and Russia, urging African countries to move away from excessive dependence on foreign aid and raw material exports towards sustainable investment, industrialisation and mutually beneficial trade partnerships.
Speaking at a high-level roundtable during the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, President Mahama stressed the need to remove structural and administrative barriers preventing stronger commercial relationships between African and Russian businesses.
He described Africa as a continent with enormous investment opportunities, particularly in agriculture, agro-processing, healthcare, energy security and digital services.
According to President Mahama, deeper cooperation between African and Russian enterprises could create jobs, strengthen local industries and accelerate economic development across the continent.
Mahama Pushes for Improved African Market Access in Russia
Addressing trade imbalances between Africa and Russia, President Mahama called for better and more direct access for African products to the Russian market.
He proposed modern trade settlement systems, including the use of local currencies and integrated digital payment platforms, to make cross-border transactions easier and reduce barriers to bilateral trade.
The President also highlighted the importance of improved market information, consistent product quality standards, reliable transport and logistics networks, and stronger private-sector partnerships.
He explained that these measures could make trade between Africa and Russia more balanced, dependable and beneficial to both sides.
Ghana Seeks Stronger Economic Partnership with Russia
President Mahama also acknowledged Russia’s historical support for African countries during their struggles against colonialism and the early years of independence.
He called for the longstanding political relationship to be transformed into practical cooperation in technology, industrial development and economic growth.
The President said Africa was ready to benefit from Russia’s technological expertise to support modern industrialisation, expand economic opportunities and improve prosperity across the continent.
Mahama’s Russia Visit Supports Ghana’s Trade Diversification Agenda
President Mahama’s participation in the Russia–Africa Summit forms part of Ghana’s broader foreign policy and economic strategy to diversify international trade partnerships, attract foreign direct investment and strengthen economic cooperation with strategic global partners.
The engagement also supports efforts to advance the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promote intra-African trade and increase access to international markets for African-made products.
President Mahama, who is expected to assume the African Union (AU) Chairmanship next year, has emphasised the need for Africa to pursue economic partnerships that promote investment, technology transfer, industrial growth and long-term development.
The discussions highlight the growing importance of Africa–Russia relations in expanding trade, strengthening investment flows and creating new opportunities for economic transformation across the continent.
Source: newsthemegh.com