Resolve impasse with China – Victor Gbeho

The former Chairman of ECOWAS Commission, Ambassador Victor Gbeho, has called for a renewal of the friendship between Ghana and China, considering the mutually beneficial relationship the two countries derive from each other.

Ghana and China’s relationship appeared to have been marred in the wake of alleged mistreatment and deportation of Chinese nationals who engaged in illegal mining known in the local parlance as ‘galamsey’.

The Ghanaian government deported more than 150 Chinese nationals, a move which China responded by sending a high powered delegation from China to Ghana to see the president and solve the issue amicably.

The international diplomat, Mr. Gbeho, says the future between Ghana and China is bright therefore the two must fashion out ways to iron out the recent stalemate once and for all.

Speaking at 52nd Anniversary of the Signing of a Treaty of Friendship between Ghana and China, Ambassador Gbeho implored Ghanaians to bolster the economic and social ties with the Asian country.

Recent confirmation of China’s readiness to give the $3.5 billion loan to improve infrastructure confirms the confidence that china has in economic partnership with Ghana, Victor Gbeho noted.

He added, the increase of Chinese businesses in Ghana is also a sign of continued partnership between China and Ghana.

The diplomat touted China as the largest direct foreign investor in Ghana while noting that China has already invested $5 million into the Ghanaian economy.

“In the context of this example of friendship that Ghana must assess the recent difficulties that crept up in relation with Chinese nationals who involved themselves in illegal mining in the forest areas”, Ambassador Gbeho said.

“I have no doubt that Ghana and the Chinese governments will face the responsibilities in the matter squarely. Both sides must resolve to work on the recent past so we can develop mutual trust and willingness to share prosperity”, he added.

The President of the Ghana-China Friendship Association, Kwadwo Amu Godfred, said the association has instituted a program to enter and make success the Chinese market

The Ghana-China Friendship Association was established among other things to promote deeper collaboration between the two countries.