Ghana, South Korea deepen strategic ties as Ablakwa co-chairs 2026 Korea–Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reaffirmed the strengthening partnership between Africa and the Republic of South Korea following his co-chairmanship of the 2026 Korea–Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Seoul.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Mr. Ablakwa described the engagement as an honour, noting that he co-chaired the meeting alongside his South Korean counterpart, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun.
He emphasized that the dialogue marked a renewed commitment by both sides to build a mutually beneficial partnership anchored on transformation, industrial growth, and shared prosperity.
According to him, both Africa and South Korea are increasingly aligning their cooperation around value addition, industrialisation, job creation, and improved returns on trade, priorities he said reflect the aspirations of Africa’s youthful population and the evolving global economic landscape.
He noted that South Korea, with its strong reputation as a technology and manufacturing powerhouse, remains a key strategic partner in achieving these goals.
Mr. Ablakwa highlighted several ongoing and upcoming bilateral projects between Ghana and South Korea across critical sectors including energy, agriculture, maritime development, education, ship manufacturing, roads, and healthcare.
He disclosed that the two countries are set to establish a new university in Ghana this year, roll out a West Africa Hyundai automotive manufacturing plant, and launch solar-powered irrigation systems to support agricultural transformation.
He further revealed that cooperation is expanding into emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, energy transition, and critical minerals, describing these areas as central to future global competitiveness.
On mobility and diplomatic relations, the Foreign Minister announced that visa waiver negotiations between Ghana and South Korea, covering all categories of passports are progressing positively.
He added that diplomatic and service passport holders have already benefited from initial agreements reached.
Mr. Ablakwa also commended South Korea for its support of a Ghana-led United Nations resolution describing the transatlantic enslavement as “the gravest crime against humanity,” describing it as a landmark moral and historical milestone.
Looking ahead, he noted that both countries are preparing to mark 50 years of formal diplomatic relations next year, expressing optimism that the anniversary will further deepen cooperation.
“Long live this impactful and trusted Africa-Korea relations,” he concluded.
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