Kufuor congratulates Dr. Asamoa-Baah on WHO job

Accra, July 27, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Friday congratulated Dr Anarfi Asamoa-Baah, a Ghanaian medical professional, on his appointment as Deputy Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

"You have done Ghana a great pride. Well done and keep it up", he said when he received the Deputy Director-General at the Castle, Osu. President Kufuor noted that this latest international appointment of a Ghanaian national was in keeping with tradition. "We are a small country but we punch above our weight."

He counselled him to always remain patient, dedicated and persevere, saying by so doing, the sky would be his limit to bring more honour to the country.

Additionally, he should be mindful of what he could do to support Ghana and Africa, a continent plagued by diseases and other drawbacks, even as he served the world. Dr. Asamoa-Baah thanked the Government and people for the support and prayers.

"The show of goodwill and support has been overwhelming," he said. Irish High Commissioner, Mr Liam Canniffe, who has ended his duty tour of the country, was also at the Castle to say farewell to President Kufuor.

He lauded Ghana for its political and economic success and re-affirmed Ireland's commitment to work with the country. "I admire you for what you have done in Ghana, the sub-Region and Africa. Your chairmanship and leadership of the African Union has been outstanding - a pathfinder in bringing the African Peer Review Mechanism forward."

President Kufuor said the Government was resolved not to fail in good governance, democratisation and sound economic management. He said Ghana wanted its bilateral relations with Ireland to grow even stronger, adding that it was on account of this that it would like the Irish High Commissioner to have a permanent residence in Accra. High Commissioners from Ireland accredited to Ghana are based in Abuja, Nigeria. President Kufuor said with its leading role in the European Union, the Irish should use their influence to support Africa. 27 July 07