Co-operation with the Philippines Urged

The Association of Filipinos in Ghana (PILSAG) as part of the 104th anniversary celebrations of the independence of the Philippines Republic, on Saturday held a public screening of the Filipino feature film, "Tanging Yaman" (A Change of Heart).

The occasion was described as one that affirms and celebrates the kinship of the Ghanaian and Filipino people. Mr Alex T. Quarmye, representing PILSAG said there are similarities between the two countries, which should be built on. He said there is a need for a bridge to link Ghana and the Philippines.

The Minister of Information and Presidential Affairs, Mr. Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey in his remarks said the two countries are rebuilding their economies through economic reforms. The two countries must therefore pool their natural and human resources within the framework of bilateral relations and co-operation in order to improve the living standards of their people.

This co-operation should include exchange of information and co-operation in strategies for improving infrastructure, overhauling the tax system to bolster government revenues, moving towards further privatisation, communications and information technology, distance learning, films and films production and increasing trade between them and to influence trade integration with the respective regional blocks.

Mr. Obetsebi-Lamptey called on Filipinos in Ghana to help project the image of the country as a safe-haven for investment, a country where there is the rule of law and democracy and where the friendly citizens welcome visitors and tourists.