H.E. Sergei Berdnikov, the Russian Ambassador to Ghana, met with Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, on 13th March 2025, to discuss several key areas of bilateral cooperation. The meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, focused on trade, defense, education, and diplomatic relations.
Minister Ablakwa acknowledged the strong relationship between Ghana and Russia, noting Russia’s significant contribution to Ghana’s economy, particularly in sectors such as technology, infrastructure, education, and oil and gas. The upcoming Russia-Africa Summit was a major point of discussion, with both parties agreeing on its importance as a platform to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Russia and the African continent. Ghana expressed its readiness to engage and capitalize on the opportunities the summit will provide.
Security and defense cooperation also featured prominently in the talks, with particular attention given to military training programs. The Minister called for an expansion of economic partnerships, emphasizing trade and investment between the two nations.
The situation in Ukraine was briefly discussed, acknowledging its impact on global geopolitics and economic stability. Minister Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s commitment to peaceful diplomatic resolutions in all international conflicts.
The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the unlawful conscription of young Ghanaian nationals into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ambassador Berdnikov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to resolving the issue.
Both sides concluded the meeting on a positive note, pledging to deepen Ghana-Russia relations through ongoing diplomatic engagement and mutually beneficial initiatives.
