President highlights agriculture as a central pillar of Ghana's development agenda

John Mahama, Belarus Ghana relations, Alexander Lukashenko, Ghana agriculture, agricultural mechanisation Ghana, Ghana Belarus cooperation, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Eric Opoku, Ghana trade partnership, Belarus investment Ghana, Ghana economic cooperation, Ghana agriculture modernisation, Ghana Belarus MoU, Ghana foreign relations, agriculture technology transfer

President John Dramani Mahama has identified agriculture as a cornerstone of Ghana’s development agenda and described Belarus as a strategic partner in the country’s efforts to modernise the sector through mechanisation, technology transfer, research, and investment.

The President made the remarks during his state visit to the Republic of Belarus, where he held a tête-à-tête meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, followed by bilateral discussions between delegations from both countries aimed at strengthening cooperation across key sectors of their economies.

The high-level engagements culminated in the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signalling a significant step forward in relations between Ghana and Belarus. The agreements focus on the establishment of a Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, collaboration between the chambers of commerce of both countries, and enhanced cooperation in the agricultural sector.

The agreements were signed on Ghana’s behalf by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation Jehu Appiah, and Minister for Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku.

Addressing a joint press conference after the talks, President Mahama described the visit as a major milestone in the relationship between the two countries, stressing their shared commitment to deepening cooperation based on mutual respect, equality, and practical outcomes.

He noted that agriculture remains central to Ghana’s economic transformation strategy and highlighted Belarus’ expertise in agricultural mechanisation and technology as areas that could significantly contribute to improving productivity and strengthening food security in Ghana.

Beyond agriculture, President Mahama outlined opportunities for expanded cooperation in education, renewable energy, trade, industrial development, and other sectors considered vital to sustainable economic growth.

According to him, the newly signed agreements provide a framework for stronger engagement between government institutions and private-sector actors in both countries, creating opportunities for investment, innovation, technology exchange, and job creation.

The President expressed confidence that the outcomes of the visit would open a new chapter in Ghana-Belarus relations, translating shared ambitions into concrete projects and partnerships that deliver long-term benefits for citizens of both nations.

He further emphasised that strengthening economic diplomacy and expanding strategic partnerships remain key components of Ghana’s efforts to attract investment, accelerate industrialisation, and promote inclusive economic development.