President Kufuor receives diplomats

The President, Mr J.A. Kufuor, has reaffirmed the commitment of his government to co-operate with other African leaders in addressing the continent's socio-economic problems.

Mr Kufuor said this yesterday when he interacted with the African Diplomatic Corps at the State House in Accra. The group which was led by Mr W. Elwood Greaves, Liberia Ambassador to Ghana had called on the President to congratulate him on his recent electoral success.

Mr Kufuor noted that African leaders are faced with great challenges which include the need to build and sustain peace on the continent. He therefore called for the development of institutions and structures that will ensure sustainable economic development on the continent.

The President reiterated the need for Africans to present a common front to confront the greater challenges of Africans collective future.

Mr Greaves, on behalf of his colleagues, commended Ghanaians for going through peaceful elections.

He said this achievement would continue to inspire and give impetus to the quest for democracy, good governance and respect for human rights on the continent.

"Ghana as a pace-setter will remain our source of inspiration," he pledged, adding that they will continue to work with Ghana to alleviate poverty, diseases, debt and the scourge of war in Africa.

The President had earlier on granted audience to the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and heads of regional groups in the country.

The group which included Mr Ibrahim Khalil Omar, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the State of Palestine, Mr Kamarudin, High Commissioner of Malaysia (Asia), Ms Kathryn Dee Robinson, Ambassador of the United States (America); Dr Peter A. Schweizer, Ambassador of Switzerland who represented European Group and Mr W. Elwood Greaves, Liberian Ambassador representing Africa.

Mr Kufuor made it clear that the task facing his government is an onerous one and explained that expectations are high in the country but noted that unfortunately, the economy is not in the best of health.

Mr Omar, on his part, expressed his admiration for the able manner Ghanaians conducted the recent elections.

In another development, the President met a delegation of the Christian Council of Ghana and Heads of religious bodies.

The RT. Rev. Dr. Justice Akrofi, Anglican Bishop of Accra and Chairman of the Christian Council led the delegation.

Briefing newsmen later, Rev Dr Robert Aboagye-Mensah, General Secretary of the Council said the discussions centered on a wide range of issues including security in the country, partnership in education and the anti-corruption embarked on by the government.

The delegation, according to Rev Aboagye-Mensah pledged their support for the anti-corruption drive and called for its sustenance.