Ghana-Japan partnership anchored on peace, equity and multilateralism - Pelpuo

The partnership between Ghana and Japan is strategically positioned to address emerging global challenges, the Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has said.

He explained that through deeper cooperation in development, technology and governance, the two countries were reinforcing their partnership to respond collectively to changes in the global order, while promoting peace, democratic governance and multilateralism.

“In today's rapidly changing global order, Ghana and Japan stand side by side as partners committed to peace, democratic governance and multilateralism. We appreciate Japan's steadfast support for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to better reflect customary global realities. Ghana shares Japan's conviction that global governance must be more inclusive, equitable and responsive to evolving changes,” he said.

Dr Pelpuo, who was representing the government, made these remarks at the celebration of Japan’s National Day — marking the 67th birthday of His Majesty the Emperor — held at the Japanese Embassy in Accra.

The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, Members of Parliament, representatives of the Council of State, traditional rulers, religious leaders, development partners, members of the Japanese community in Ghana among others.

Japan’s support

Dr Pelpuo enumerated Japan’s support in health systems strengthening, digital innovation, space technology and major infrastructure projects, he he said underscored the Asian nation’s commitment to government’s transformation agenda.

He emphasised the planned Japanese-sponsored bridge project as a flagship initiative expected to boost regional trade and economic integration.

Dr Pelpuo also pointed to future milestones in 2027, when the two countries would mark 70 years of diplomatic relations and other historic anniversaries, expressing optimism that cooperation will expand in key strategic sectors.

“Ghana is committed to working closely with Japan to commemorate these historic milestones through high-level visits, cultural programs and expanded cooperation in education, agriculture, technology and research. It is anticipated that these celebrations will honor our shared history and inspire the future of our relationship,” he said.

Deeper collaboration

The Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto equally underscored the growing importance of Ghana–Japan cooperation amid an evolving and increasingly volatile global order.

He said both countries shared fundamental values and a commitment to bilateral and multilateral collaboration to co-create innovative solutions to global challenges, adding that Japan stood ready to deepen relations under the leadership of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

The ambassador reaffirmed Japan’s support for Ghana’s development through sustainable human resource development, advanced technology application and joint advocacy for reform of the United Nations Security Council.

He mentioned expanding cooperation in Universal Health Coverage, artificial intelligence and space technology, noting Japan’s support for resilient health systems, AI capacity-building for young Ghanaians and satellite-based solutions for agriculture and disaster management.

On infrastructure, he referenced the JICA-supported Volivo (Volta) Bridge project, expected to enhance regional connectivity and drive growth within the Volta Economic Corridor.

Beyond large-scale projects, he stressed Japan’s people-centred approach, citing the work of about 40 Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers across Ghana and ongoing community interventions under the Grassroots Grant Assistance programme, which he described as central to strengthening mutual understanding and human security.