Mr Gong Jianzhong, Chinese Ambassador, says the influx of Chinese in Ghana is hinged on supporting the country to establish an independent and vibrant economy.
He said the two countries had gone through turbulent and difficult times in the past therefore they had to support each other to develop so as to better the lots of their people and future generations.
Mr Gong said this during the Ghana Gas Project Performance Awards at Atuabo in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region.
The event rewarded Sinopec, the Chinese firm executing the gas project, for its outstanding contributions.
The Chinese Ambassador said the two countries established diplomatic ties in the 1960s and since then they had supported each other politically and economically.
He said the outstanding performance of Sinopec in executing the gas project was a manifestation of Chinese presence in the country.
“Sometimes, people ask, why are the Chinese here? The simple answer is, we are here to support you develop,” he said.
He, therefore, advocated continuous strengthening of the bilateral relations between the two countries for their mutual benefit.
Dr George Sipa Yankey, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Gas Company, commended Sinopec for its outstanding performance in implementing the gas project.
He said the contractors pre-financed the project at a time that the Chinese Development Bank loan was not ready, adding “without their support, the project will not be at this stage”.
Dr Yankey said the contractors exhibited high level of discipline, dedication and hard work throughout the duration of the project.
The CEO presented a plaque and a certificate to Sinopec for its excellent performance.