Asantehene returns from UK.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II returned home today from London, UK after attending the Conference of International Cocoa and Coffee Organisation (CICCO).

The Asantehene who was accompanied by Oheneba Hiahene Agyemang Atewereboanda, was met on arrival by Dr Kwame Addo Kufuor, Minister of Defence, Mr Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, Chief of Staff Office of the President, Sheik I.C. Quaye, Greater Accra Regional Minister, chiefs from Ashanti and well wishers. Briefing newsmen, Oheneba Hiahene said Otumfuo addressed the conference and his message was well received by the delegates.

The Asantehene, he said appealed passionately to the conference especially cocoa importing countries, to reduce the tariffs on cocoa export.

Otumfuo impressed on the conference to adopt polices to reward cocoa farmers by offering good price for their produce and also made commendation to suit all stakeholders.

The Asantehene urged African cocoa producing countries to come together and establish industries to process the excess cocoa for local consumption.