His Excellency John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Belarus for a state visit aimed at deepening cooperation in industrialisation, agriculture and technology transfer. The visit is part of efforts to secure partnerships that support Ghana’s economic transformation agenda.
Upon arrival, His Excellency received an official welcome from senior Belarusian government officials. The reception was led by Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Karankevich alongside Ghana’s Ambassador to Belarus, Dr Joseph Kwaku Asiah.
The President’s visit is expected to focus heavily on practical areas of economic cooperation. Government intends to strengthen engagements that can support industrial growth and boost productive sectors of the economy.
Furthermore, His Excellency Mahama is pursuing opportunities linked to the 24 Hour Economy policy. The 24 Hour Economy seeks to increase productivity, expand employment and encourage greater investment across strategic sectors.
Agriculture is a major priority during the visit. The President is expected to explore partnerships capable of improving food production and strengthening value addition within farming communities.
His Excellency will also be direct negotiations towards manufacturing development. The discussions are expected to identify areas where technology and expertise can help increase local production capacity.
Additionally, irrigation development is expected to feature prominently in engagements. Government continues to prioritise the development of the Volta Basin and other agricultural zones to support year round farming activities.
The President’s agenda also aligns with the Accelerated Export Development Programme. The initiative seeks to increase exports through enhanced agricultural production and industrial processing.
Several regions identified as major food producing areas remain central to government planning. These include the Northern Region, Upper East Region, Upper West Region, North East Region and the Bono Regions.
Meanwhile, His Excellency is expected to engage investors who have expressed interest in Ghana’s economy. Such engagements are intended to attract capital into productive sectors and support long term economic growth.
The state visit also provides an opportunity for technical cooperation between both countries. Government believes the exchange of experience and innovation can contribute significantly to national development objectives.
Over the coming days, the President will hold meetings with Belarusian authorities and industry stakeholders. The discussions are expected to generate partnerships that support industrial expansion and economic modernisation in Ghana.
Belarusian Traditions Highlight Diplomatic Welcome For State Visit
His Excellency John Dramani Mahama participated in a traditional welcoming ceremony as part of his state visit to Belarus. The event demonstrated longstanding cultural practices that symbolise friendship, trust and mutual respect.
Preparations were made for a formal reception immediately after the Presidential aircraft arrived at the designated area. Belarusian officials assembled at the venue to receive the Ghanaian leader through established diplomatic protocols.
The ceremony featured the presentation of flowers by two young Belarusian girls. The gesture is regarded as an expression of goodwill and hospitality towards distinguished guests.
A key feature of the reception involved the traditional offering of salt and bread. The custom is an important symbol within Belarusian culture and is often reserved for special visitors.
The practice bears historical significance across parts of Eastern Europe. Similar traditions are observed in countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Armenia and several Balkan states.
Within the ceremony, bread represents life, prosperity and hospitality. The presentation signifies a wish for abundance and wellbeing during the guest’s stay. Salt also symbolises friendship, protection and enduring relationships between people and nations.
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