India, a trusted ally - Mills

Accra, Sept 19, GNA- President John Evans Atta Mills at the week-end acknowledged India as Ghana's longest and one of the biggest allies in the world and pledged the country's willingness to embrace the Indian experience in her development efforts.

He praised India for her long, warm and friendly ties with Ghana, and pointed out that the Indian experience showed that dedication and hardwork yielded good dividends in a nation's march for progress. President Mills made the observation in a chat with Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State at the India Ministry of External Affairs, who made a stop over in Accra, from Liberia to India, at the Castle, Osu.

The visit is also a show of solidarity with Ghana on the centenary celebration of Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, which falls next Monday.

President Mills on behalf of the Government and people of Ghana welcomed Dr. Tharoor and described the relations between Ghana and India as that of; 'brothers and sisters'.

"I don't think there is anybody in Ghana who doesn't know the relationship between Ghana and India," President Mills said, adding "we are happy to have you."

President Mills acknowledged Indian contribution to Dr. Nkrumah's efforts in the nation's march to independence and its support to Ghana's democracy.

Dr. Tharoor, for his part, said India had a special relationship with Ghana, and affirmed the bond of relations between the two countries.

"I'm pleased and privileged to be in Accra. Since I took over last May, it has been my major priority to be in Accra," the Minister said. Dr. Tharoor observed that both countries were proud democracies, members of the United Nations, had good trade relations and held common view on international issues.

Later in a chat with journalists, Dr Tharoor eulogized Dr Nkrumah for his role in the African struggle for independence.

He also commended the instrumentality of Dr Nkrumah and Jawaharlal Nehru, former Indian Prime Minister, for their dedication to the cause of the developing world. 19 Sept. 09