Parliament ratifies visa waiver agreements with four countries
Parliament has approved the ratification of visa waiver agreements between Ghana and four countries: Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, Colombia, and the Commonwealth of Dominica.
The agreements, which cover holders of diplomatic, service, and ordinary passports, are expected to facilitate smoother travel and strengthen cooperation between the nations.
In his presentation to the House, the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Committee, Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, highlighted that these agreements are aimed at reinforcing multilateral partnerships across several key sectors.
These sectors include education, energy, trade, tourism, and agriculture, all of which stand to benefit from enhanced mobility and deeper collaboration.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa reassured Members of Parliament that the agreements would not lead to an immediate or significant loss of revenue.
He pointed out that while visa fees may be waived, the broader economic advantages such as increased trade, tourism, and bilateral cooperation far outweigh any potential fiscal impact.
Mr. Ablakwa further emphasised that the visa waiver initiative is poised to foster long-term socio-economic benefits for both Ghana and its partner countries, with an emphasis on sustained economic growth and regional integration.
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