Ghana’s Vice President, Her Excellency Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for a revitalised and equitable partnership between Africa and Europe, urging leaders to build on shared values and mutual respect as she addressed the Seventh AU–EU Summit in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking before an audience of Heads of State, government leaders, and senior officials from both continents, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang delivered warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and extended congratulations to Angola as it celebrates its 50th Independence anniversary.
She described the Summit as unfolding during a period of “profound global transformation,” stressing the need for Africa and Europe to chart a path guided by sustainable development, partnership, and mutual benefit.
Reflecting on progress since the landmark Cairo Summit in 2000, the Vice President noted significant achievements in peace, security, and governance, commending the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) as a milestone. Yet, she cautioned that persistent challenges, climate shocks, geopolitical tensions, piracy, and ongoing humanitarian crises, require urgent and coordinated action.
Turning to Ghana’s own trajectory, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the country’s 2026 budget as evidence of a renewed commitment to economic stabilisation and growth. She cited falling inflation, a stabilised cedi, and strengthened fiscal governance as indicators of resilience. Ghana’s economic strategy, she explained, is anchored on restoring stability, enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, and prioritising job creation and human capital, pillars that align with the AU–EU Vision 2030 and position Ghana to contribute to Africa’s ongoing transformation.
On matters of peace and security, the Vice President described West Africa as a region of vibrant economies and energetic youth, while warning of rising threats from extremist groups exploiting poverty and environmental challenges. She announced Ghana’s intention to convene a regional meeting to address violent extremism and called for greater support, financial, technical, and logistical, for APSA, the African Governance Architecture, and Regional Economic Communities.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang welcomed the European Union’s €150 billion Global Gateway Initiative, especially its focus on green energy and digital transformation. She expressed Ghana’s hope for further EU assistance with offshore patrol waivers, repairs to the Kpone hydroelectric dam, and improvements to the Damongo water facility.
As Ghana continues its leadership on the African Union’s Year of Reparations, the Vice President revealed the country’s intent to present a UN resolution recognising the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade as a grave crime against humanity, urging European partners to join as co-sponsors. She also praised Africa-Europe cooperation at the UN Human Rights Council and encouraged continued momentum toward justice and equity.
Concluding her address, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang invoked the legacy of Kofi Annan, emphasising the inseparability of development, security, and human rights. She urged leaders to forge a partnership that transforms these principles into action, expanding opportunity through peace, and achieving development through stability.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
