President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its long standing relationship with the Republic of Korea following bilateral talks with Korean President Lee Jae Myung.

The meeting formed a key highlight of the Ghanaian leader’s working visit to the Asian country as both governments moved to expand cooperation in critical sectors of development.

The discussions resulted in the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding designed to advance collaboration between the two countries. The agreements cover maritime security, climate change cooperation and digital technology development, areas considered vital to the economic and security interests of both nations.

Officials from both governments indicated that the agreements represent a significant step toward deepening diplomatic and economic ties between Ghana and Korea.

Agreements Target Strategic Development Areas

The new agreements are expected to promote closer institutional cooperation and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Maritime security cooperation will focus on strengthening Ghana’s capacity to safeguard its territorial waters and enhance monitoring systems along the Gulf of Guinea.

The climate change partnership is expected to support initiatives that address environmental challenges, including sustainable resource management and climate resilience programs.

Meanwhile, the digital technology agreement aims to promote technological innovation, digital infrastructure development and knowledge transfer between institutions in both countries.

During the meeting, President John Dramani Mahama noted that these areas of cooperation reflect the shared commitment of both governments to promote sustainable development and long term economic progress.

Shared Values Strengthen Diplomatic Relations

President Mahama emphasized that relations between Ghana and Korea are built on a strong historical foundation and shared democratic values. According to him, the two countries have maintained a consistent partnership rooted in respect for democracy, human rights and international cooperation.

He explained that these shared principles have enabled both countries to collaborate closely within global institutions such as the United Nations where Ghana and Korea frequently support similar positions on major international issues.

The Ghanaian leader said the enduring relationship between the two nations continues to create opportunities for stronger diplomatic and economic collaboration.

In addition to political and technological cooperation, President Mahama highlighted ongoing collaboration in agriculture and agribusiness as another pillar of the partnership.

He noted that programs supported by the Korea International Cooperation Agency are helping Ghana expand its agricultural productivity, particularly in rice cultivation.

These initiatives are aimed at strengthening Ghana’s domestic food production while reducing reliance on imports. According to the President, such programs contribute directly to improving food security and supporting rural economic development.

The government believes that continued collaboration with Korea in agricultural technology and research will help improve yields and strengthen Ghana’s agribusiness sector.

AfCFTA Opens New Trade Opportunities

President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s strategic position within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat which is headquartered in Accra.

He explained that the presence of the AfCFTA Secretariat provides a unique opportunity for international partners such as Korea to use Ghana as a gateway for production and trade across the African continent.

According to him, deeper economic collaboration between Ghanaian and Korean businesses could enable companies to expand manufacturing operations and supply goods to the broader African market under the free trade arrangement.

The President said this development positions Ghana as an attractive investment destination for companies seeking access to the rapidly growing African market.

President Mahama expressed confidence that closer economic ties between Ghana and Korea could unlock new opportunities in technology, industry and digital innovation.

He stated that Ghana’s natural resources and skilled workforce provide a strong foundation for industrial growth, while Korea’s global reputation in technology and manufacturing offers valuable expertise that can support Ghana’s development agenda.

The President noted that combining these strengths could create a mutually beneficial partnership capable of driving sustainable economic growth in both countries.

Working Visit to Strengthen Asian Partnerships

The bilateral meeting formed part of President Mahama’s broader working visit to the Republic of Korea from 10 to 14 March 2026. The trip includes a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations and expanding economic cooperation between Ghana and Asian partners.

Officials say the visit reflects the government’s wider diplomatic strategy to deepen engagement with major economies in Asia while attracting investment to support Ghana’s industrial transformation.

Since assuming office in 2025, President Mahama has undertaken several international visits to strengthen economic partnerships with countries across the continent and beyond.

These engagements have included visits to major Asian economies such as China, Japan and Singapore as part of efforts to promote investment, industrial cooperation and technology transfer.

The government believes that sustained diplomatic engagement with global partners will help position Ghana as a competitive destination for investment while supporting the country’s long term economic development agenda.