By Makiza Micheline Latifa
Accra, Ghana — The Republic of Ghana and the Russian Federation have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations following a Technical Session of Political Consultations held on March 12, 2026, at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. The meeting provided an opportunity for both nations to review the current state of cooperation and identify new areas for strengthened partnership.
The Ghanaian delegation was led by Eric Owusu-Boateng, Director of the Europe Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Russian side was headed by Anatoly Bashkin, Director of the Department of African States of the Russian Federation.
Reinforcing a 68-Year Partnership
Opening the session, Coordinating Director of Political and Economic Affairs at Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Harold Adlai Agyeman, underscored the longstanding relationship between the two nations. He noted that the partnership, which spans 68 years, has been built on foundations of trust, mutual respect, and solidarity.
According to him, cooperation between Ghana and Russia has been sustained through regular political dialogue, economic engagement, educational exchanges, and joint collaboration within multilateral frameworks.
During the consultations, both delegations reviewed the state of bilateral trade and explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in several key sectors. These included agriculture, industrial development, manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and technology transfer.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of expanding academic and scientific collaboration between universities in both countries, particularly in fields such as science, engineering, technology, and medicine. In addition, the delegations examined possibilities for cooperation in energy diversification, technical and vocational education, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing skills development.
Both sides further reviewed existing cooperation frameworks and reaffirmed their commitment to advancing pending bilateral agreements while maintaining sustained diplomatic dialogue.
Regional and Multilateral Engagement
Beyond bilateral relations, the consultations provided a platform for both countries to exchange views on broader regional and international developments. Particular attention was given to the evolving security and political situation in the Sahel region.
The delegations also discussed preparations for the upcoming Third Russia–Africa Summit, scheduled for October 2026, which is expected to further strengthen cooperation between Russia and African nations.
Following the technical session, the head of the Russian delegation paid a courtesy call on the Chief Director of Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khadija Iddrisu. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the consultations and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations.
During the engagement, Ghana raised concerns regarding a Russian citizen allegedly involved in the non-consensual publication of explicit images of Ghanaian women. The Russian side assured Ghana of its cooperation in addressing the matter and ensuring accountability.
Ghana also expressed concern about reports of Ghanaian youth being enlisted in Russia’s ongoing special military operations. Both countries agreed to work collaboratively to address the issue and ensure that appropriate measures are taken.
The consultations concluded on a positive note, with both governments emphasizing their shared commitment to deepening cooperation across multiple sectors. The dialogue is expected to contribute to stronger diplomatic ties, expanded economic collaboration, and enhanced engagement on regional and global issues.