The Vice President of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has underscored the importance of fairness, mutual respect, and shared responsibility in international partnerships.
Speaking at the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels, Professor Opoku-Agyemang joined world leaders and policymakers for a strategic dialogue on global partnerships amid shifting geopolitical power dynamics, inequality, and global tensions.
Delivering her remarks during a panel discussion on “The State of the World,” she emphasised the need for cooperation and equity in international relations, drawing inspiration from African philosophy and values.
“Peace cannot be achieved when others continue to feel left out, and partnerships must be rooted in fairness and agency,” she stated.
The Vice President noted that Africa, and particularly Ghana, must take an active role in shaping global conversations and outcomes rather than remaining passive participants.
“Ghana has a vibrant and determined youth who are not waiting for tomorrow but are leading today. Through the 24-Hour Economy Policy, our government is empowering them to drive innovation, productivity, and nation-building,” she added.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the importance of economic transformation through research, innovation, and value addition to Africa’s natural resources.
“Ghana cannot continue exporting raw materials only to import finished products at higher costs. This cycle undermines both sovereignty and prosperity,” she cautioned.
Citing an African proverb, she remarked, “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers,” explaining that in today’s world, the so-called “grass”, representing vulnerable nations, is no longer content to bear the brunt of great power rivalries.
She therefore called for diversified global partnerships in which no single bloc dominates and where Africa asserts its agency in global decision-making.
“True partnership must involve co-decision-making, agency, and mutual accountability. Ghana is open to collaboration, but it must be grounded in respect, fairness, and shared progress,” she reiterated.
FG/MA
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