Honorable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana congratulated Pakistan Government and its people on Pakistan Day. She conveyed these greetings as Chief Guest during the Reception hosted by High Commissioner for Pakistan in Ghana Her Excellency Farhat Ayesha on the evening of 22^nd March 2024.

The Foreign Minister Botchwey expressed that relations between Ghana and Pakistan were friendly with a lot of potential that needed to be unearthed. She elaborated that both countries stood ready to work towards realization of stronger ties in the areas of trade and investment, culture and education, agriculture and technology. She thanked Pakistan for building capacity of Ghanaian officials. She conveyed best wishes for the newly formed Government in Pakistan. She also wished prosperity for the people of Pakistan.

The High Commissioner Farhat Ayesha welcomed the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. She briefed about the history of Pakistan Day. She traced the 66 years old friendship of Pakistan with Ghana based on trust, mutual support and understanding. She outlined that political engagement between the two countries had increased, bilateral commercial relations were expanding, and a Joint Business Council had been established between Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FPCCI) and Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industries (GNCCI). There had been exchange of business delegations from both sides. ‘Ghana is the second largest trading partner of Pakistan in West Africa with overall bilateral trade of $ 65 million (2023)’, she said. The High Commissioner commended the role of Pakistani diaspora in bringing the two countries together through their contribution to the economy of Ghana and philanthropic services.

The reception was attended by the Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in Ghana, politicians, senior official of Ghanaian Government, other dignitaries and members of Pakistani diaspora. Pakistani cuisine was served for the Iftar dinner.

Pakistan Day was celebrated with respect and fervor in Ghana. A flag hoisting ceremony was held. The High Commissioner hoisted the flag.

Pakistani and Ghana enjoy historically cordial and trust-based relations. Pakistan Day celebrations in Accra and congratulatory messages from the leadership of Ghana reinforced the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Accra

23 March 2024