Akufo-Addo calls for stronger Africa-Korea partnership

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for deeper collaboration and mutual growth between African countries and South Korea.

Addressing a gathering at the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit attended by South Korea’s President, Yoon Suk-Yeol, on Tuesday, President Akufo-Addo outlined a vision of shared growth, sustainability and solidarity under the summit’s theme, "The Future We Make Together."

President Akufo-Addo emphasised the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Korea, established nearly 50 years ago in 1977.

“Korea has proven to be a reliable partner and dependable friend of Ghana," he stated and highlighted the economic, cultural and political exchanges that have benefited both nations.

Ghana’s President commended the collaborative spirit that has characterised the partnership and expressed hope for its continued strength.

President Akufo-Addo identified three critical pillars for the future of Africa-Korea relations: shared growth, sustainability and solidarity.

He underscored the importance of economic collaboration, noting Africa’s abundant natural resources and youthful population as key assets.

"By fostering trade, investment and innovation, we can create a relationship of synergy that benefits both regions," the President said.

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 and urged African countries to leverage these innovations.

"This is not merely an environmental imperative; it is an economic opportunity that can drive long-term growth and stability," he asserted.

The President emphasised the need for global solidarity, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global challenges and 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 the significance of a partnership of economic powerhouses for Africa that would lead to increased investment, new markets for African products and technology transfer.

On the potential of innovation and technology to drive sustainable development, 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, adding: “The future we make together should be one of shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity.”

He urged both regions to seize the moment to deepen their collaboration and build a brighter, more prosperous future.