Even in the midst of recent economic setbacks around the world, Ghana's Minister of Works and Housing, the Honorable Francis Asenso-Boakye, has reaffirmed the country's commitment to sustainable development, higher living standards, and increased resilience.
This promise was made by him on June 5, 2023, during an event that was held to commemorate the National Day Reception of the Kingdom of Denmark. At this event, he was delivering a statement on behalf of the government of Ghana. He emphasized the significance of cultivating collaborations, expanding on previous accomplishments, and investigating new opportunities for cooperative endeavors.
Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye stressed the deep historical ties that have existed between Ghana and Denmark for a very long time. These ties may be traced back to the year 1660, when Danish merchants began engaging in commerce with the Gold Coast. He brought attention to the significance of the Osu Christianborg Castle in Accra as a symbol of the long-lasting links that exist between the two countries.
"Following Ghana's independence, formal diplomatic ties were established between Ghana and Denmark, with Denmark opening its embassy in Accra in 1961 and Ghana reciprocating the gesture in 1966. The two countries' relationship has grown stronger over the years, as seen by an increase in the number of high-level exchanges and visits. Notable visits include the three-day trip taken by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II in 2017 and the formal trip taken by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in 2021, both of which will commemorate the 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, as stated by him.
The Minister expressed their gratitude toward Denmark for their Strategic Sector Cooperation programs, which have resulted in considerable gains for both countries. The successful projects that were emphasized include cooperation in the water supply and wastewater management in the municipality of Tema, expansion of Ghana's maritime industry, and the usage of administrative data for the generation of official statistics.
In his remark, the Danish Ambassador to Ghana, Tom Nrring, disclosed that the Kingdom of Denmark had collaborated with the government of Ghana in a variety of fields over the course of the past several years. He claimed, "Partnerships with the Ghana Maritime Authority and Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority have contributed to strengthening Ghana's maritime sector and driving growth and development in this essential domain." "Partnerships with the Ghana Maritime Authority and Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority have contributed to strengthening Ghana's maritime sector."
The Honorable Asenso-Boakye stated again that these amazing initiatives are evidence of the breadth of cooperation between both countries, as well as their willingness to bring about constructive change for both countries. He lauded the collaboration that exists between Ghana and Denmark, which is predicated on an understanding and respect for one another as well as a shared ambition to advance.
The commemoration of Denmark's National Day brought to light the everlasting friendship that exists between Ghana and Denmark and demonstrated the fruitful cooperation that exists between the two countries in a variety of fields. It was the 174th anniversary of the commemoration of Denmark's Constitution Day at that time. Officials from the government, traditional leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives from the business community were present at the occasion.