The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House in Accra.
He was accompanied by Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, and Gana Lawan, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Ghana.
During the meeting, Dr. Touray provided a comprehensive update on ECOWAS’ current affairs, with a particular focus on the withdrawal of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and the contingency measures being implemented in response.
He also discussed ongoing challenges facing the regional bloc, preparations for ECOWAS’ 50th-anniversary celebrations, and plans for a Special Summit aimed at promoting inclusivity and charting the future course of the organization.
ECOWAS reaffirms commitment to Ghana
Dr. Touray congratulated President Mahama on his electoral victory and assured him of ECOWAS’ commitment to working closely with his administration to advance the regional body’s core objectives.
He highlighted key areas of collaboration, including good governance, economic development, regional integration, and security.
In response, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s strong commitment to ECOWAS and pledged his administration’s full support toward achieving the organization’s goals.
He also expressed appreciation to the ECOWAS Commission for its electoral support, which he acknowledged as instrumental in ensuring a smooth and credible presidential election on December 7, 2024.
Ghana’s role in ECOWAS development
Reflecting on Ghana’s long-standing membership in ECOWAS, President Mahama emphasized the numerous benefits the country has derived, particularly in the areas of democracy and governance, the free movement of people, the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), and peacekeeping initiatives.
He also highlighted major infrastructure projects facilitated by ECOWAS, notably the Lagos-Abidjan Highway Corridor, which was initiated during his first term in office.
Dialogue on AES withdrawal
Addressing the withdrawal of the AES countries, President Mahama underscored the importance of ongoing diplomatic efforts to foster regional peace and security.
To this end, he announced the appointment of a Special Envoy to facilitate engagements and explore pathways for reintegrating the AES countries into ECOWAS.
Ghana’s commitment to ECOWAS’ 50th Anniversary
With ECOWAS preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, President Mahama commended the organization’s achievements and progress over the decades.
He informed Dr. Touray that Ghana has established a dedicated committee and allocated a budget to support the anniversary celebrations.
Additionally, President Mahama welcomed the idea of an all-inclusive regional Summit, which he believes will help reposition ECOWAS to effectively address emerging challenges in the global landscape.
Strengthening regional cooperation
President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s alignment with ECOWAS’ vision and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation.
He emphasized that sustainable development, stability, and economic prosperity in West Africa could only be achieved through stronger collaboration among member states.
The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding between Ghana and the ECOWAS Commission to deepen engagements and implement strategic measures that will enhance regional development and integration.
