US asked to exert positive influence

Essikado (W/R), April 19, GNA - Nana Kobina Nketsiah V, Omanhene of Essikado Traditional Area, on Wednesday called on the United States to positively use its influence as a super power in international affairs. He made the call, when Mr Donald Winters, the visiting Secretary of the United States Navy, paid him a courtesy call at his palace at Essikado. Nana Nketsiah said it was important that the United States met its responsibilities and obligations, because that country was made up of people from diverse racial backgrounds.

He further urged the United States to be steadfast in implementing programmes such as the Millennium Development Account, aimed at improving living conditions in other countries.

Nana Nketsiah recalled his recent visit to the United States during the Black History Month, saying, the warm reception accorded him showed the cordial relations between the United States and Ghana. Mr Winters said the co-operation between Ghana Navy and US Navy was for the mutual benefit of both countries.

He said the Navies of the two countries could work together in many areas in the interest of their nations. Mr Winters said he was in Sekondi-Takoradi to interact with United States troops on board USS Emory S. Land that was on a five-day visit to the Western Naval Command.

Mr Winters also called on Madam Sophia Horner-Sam, Deputy Western Regional Minister and talks centred on bilateral relations between Ghana and the United States.

He was accompanied by Commodore Frank Daley, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command and Commander of Two Garrison and senior US and Ghanaian Naval Officers.