US urged to help Ghana in oil exploration programme

Sekondi, Oct. 20 - GNA- Mr. Joseph B. Aidoo, Western Regional Minister on Wednesday appealed to investors in the United States of America (USA) to assist Ghana in its oil exploration in the Tano Basin. He said the country's geographical position with respect to the Atlantic Ocean should enable it to discover oil like other countries within the sub-region.

Mr. Aidoo made the appeal when a four-member US delegation led by Mr. Jerry Lanier, Deputy Chief of Mission of the US embassy paid a courtesy call on him at his residency at Sekondi.

Members of the delegation would visit the Naval Base and Airforce Station at Takoradi, Apremdo Military Barracks, Norplam Company at Ewusiajo and the Takoradi Thermal Plant at Aboadze as part of their two-day visit.

Mr. Aidoo said the USA military could assist the country in the construction of bailey bridges and the provision of infrastructure to facilitate trade and investment.

He said several communities living beyond rivers and streams find it difficult to access health care and transport their foodstuffs to nearby markets in the region.

Mr. Lanier assured the Minister that the long-standing relationship between Ghana and the USA would continue to improve. He said the US embassy has established a commercial section to facilitate trade between both countries and enhance private sector development.

Mr. Lanier stressed that Ghanaians receive more entry and resident visas than any other African country.

He therefore, appealed to Ghanaians to indicate the type of visa they require, when applying for them.

"Without the proper designation, many applicants are rejected," he stressed.