Accra (Greater Accra), 10th May ?99 ?
Ghana and Nigeria have reaffirmed their determination to continue to pursue diplomatic means to bring a lasting solution to the conflict in Sierra Leone.
They have therefore urged President Tijan Kabbah and the RUF rebels to continue to dialogue and to make progress in their current deliberations in Togo.
This was made known to journalists by Mr Victor Gbeho, Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Kotoka International airport after accompanying President Rawlings on a three-day official visit to Nigeria at the invitation of the Nigerian President, General Abudulsalami Abubakar, before he leaves office on the 29th of May.
Among the delegation were Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, the First Lady, Alhaji Mohammed Mumuni, Minister of Employment and Social Welfare, Mrs. Cecilia Johnson, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Dan Abodakpi, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industries.
Mr Gbeho said, President Rawlings and his Nigerian counterpart, noted with regret that conflict still exist in other countries and this has created instability in the sub-region.
According to Mr Gbeho, President Rawlings held bilateral discussions and reviewed the state of relations between the two countries, especially about already signed agreements to enhance co-operation between the two countries, with the Nigerian leader.
The two nations agreed to promote the future of developing countries especially in the sub-region and to ensure greater freedom for their people.
Mr Gbeho said President Rawlings and his entourage visited the Aluminium smelter at Ikot Abasi, which imports ingots from VALCO.
President Rawlings also visited Mobil oil facilities and plants where LPG gas is produced and exported.
At a dinner at the University of Technology at Mina, President Rawlings was awarded an honorary doctorate degree in law for his achievements in Ghana and for his efforts towards international peace and reconciliation.
The President was met on arrival by Vice President John Atta Mills, the Chairman of the Council of State, Alhaji Mumuni Bawumai, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Ben Akafia, Service Commanders and the Nigerian Ambassador in Ghana, Mohammed Moazu.
