President John Dramani Mahama will visit Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from March 8 to 10, 2025, in an effort to reintegrate these nations into ECOWAS. Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang will fulfill presidential duties during his absence. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and address regional security, especially following the creation of the Alliance of Sahel States.

President John Dramani Mahama will undertake a tour to Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from March 8 to March 10, 2025. This visit aims to reintegrate these nations into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following their recent withdrawal from the bloc. A letter detailing his official absence was communicated to Parliament by Speaker Alban Bagbin during this period.

During President Mahama’s absence, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang will assume his presidential responsibilities, as stipulated by Article 60(8) of the 1992 Constitution. This arrangement ensures a continuity of leadership within Ghana while the president is engaged in diplomatic efforts abroad.

The president’s visit underscores his commitment to enhancing Ghana’s diplomatic ties with neighboring ECOWAS states and addressing pressing regional security issues, especially in light of the newly established Alliance of Sahel States. In February, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed President Mahama’s role in facilitating negotiations for the reintegration of these Sahel countries into ECOWAS.

Prior to his diplomatic tour, President Mahama has designated a special envoy to liaise with the leaders of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The decision of these countries to withdraw from ECOWAS in January 2024 was motivated by their discontent with the bloc’s handling of governance and security challenges.

In summary, President Mahama’s impending visit to Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso represents a significant diplomatic effort to restore relations with these Sahel nations and enhance their participation in ECOWAS. The appointment of a special envoy and collaboration with regional counterparts highlight the importance of unity in addressing regional security concerns.

Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com

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