Government to enhance economic gains

Accra, Feb. 3, GNA- President John Evans Atta Mills on Friday assured the nation and the Diplomatic Community of more diligent work to enhance the nation’s economic gains.

He said Government would not sacrifice the gains on the altar of election year politics, stressing: “We will continue to work with you in the last leg of my first term to consolidate the gains achieved.

“I am confident that we will remain strong allies in the next four years. I wish to reiterate my Government’s commitment to deepening the bonds of friendship and co-operation with your respective countries and organisations,” President Mills said.

President Mills was addressing diplomats and representatives of international organisations at a cocktail in Accra.

The interaction was an annual traditional gathering to exchange seasonal greetings, recall events of the past year and to reflect on the prospects of the New Year.

With an expression of appreciation and counting on the support of the diplomats, President Mills gave the assurance that Government would continue to build a Better Ghana.

President Mills said his Administration is determined to ensure free, fair and orderly elections this year, without compromising the peace and stability that the nation has enjoyed over the years.

“Please keep a close eye on the election and do not hesitate to alert us if you think there are things we need to know,” President Mills said.

He paid tribute to the African Union (AU) for the honour done Ghana by repositioning the country’s first President, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, firmly on the mind of the Continent.

The President recently unveiled a statue of Dr Nkrumah, erected by the AU at its new headquarters in Addis Ababa.

He also took part in the Kwame Nkrumah Scientific Awards ceremony at the 18th AU Ordinary Session of Heads of State and Government.

President Mills commended Gabon and Equatorial Guinea for hosting the African Cup of nations.

Mr Sini Pierre Sanou, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Accra, commended Government on the economic gains achieved last year.

“We noticed the comprehensive development, which spans all relevant socio-economic areas, including oil, gas, mining, agriculture, trade and industry, road infrastructure… which are the bedrock of any meaningful progress,” he said.

The Community observed that President Mills is committed to democracy and praised him for his contributions to peace in the West African sub-region, Africa and the United Nations.

Mr Sanou called on the international and diplomatic community to rise up and come together in the fight against drugs, arms and human trafficking as well as terrorism.

The envoys took turns to shake hands and exchange pleasantries with the President.

Music was provided by the Ghana Police Band and the newly formed choir of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called the Envoys.