President Mahama visited Côte d’Ivoire to engage in bilateral talks with President Ouattara, focusing on regional security, cocoa production enhancement, and addressing illegal mining issues. The meeting aimed to strengthen Ghana’s relations within ECOWAS and tackle pressing regional challenges, including the ongoing tensions between AES and ECOWAS.

President John Dramani Mahama has returned to Ghana following a one-day working visit to Côte d’Ivoire, where he engaged in high-level bilateral discussions with Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara. This meeting was part of President Mahama’s initiative to enhance Ghana’s relations with its ECOWAS neighbors and addressed several critical regional issues, including security, cocoa production, and illegal mining.

During the talks, the two leaders focused on increasing security concerns in the Sahel region, specifically the situation regarding the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. President Ouattara praised Mahama’s dedication to involving the Sahel states, stating that this engagement would promote reconciliation between these nations and ECOWAS.

The dialogue occurs amidst ongoing tensions between the AES bloc and ECOWAS, with Ghana playing an essential role in regional peace and diplomacy. Notably, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana are the world’s leading cocoa producers, jointly responsible for approximately 80% of global cocoa production. The presidents examined possible strategies to enhance cocoa pricing and increase value addition, thereby ensuring fairer profits for farmers and improving their international market positioning.

Additionally, the leaders discussed the adverse effects of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, which has profoundly impacted both nations. Recognizing the interconnected waterways and tributaries shared by Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, both presidents emphasized the necessity of a collaborative effort to address the environmental damage caused by this illicit activity.

In conclusion, President Mahama’s visit to Côte d’Ivoire underscores Ghana’s commitment to strengthening ties with its ECOWAS neighbors. The discussions focused on critical issues, including regional security, cocoa production strategies, and the environmental consequences of illegal mining, highlighting the mutual interests and responsibilities shared by both nations in enhancing cooperation and promoting regional stability.

Original Source: www.graphic.com.gh

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