Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has highlighted growing ties between Ghana and the Republic of Korea following the 2026 Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in South Korea.
In a post shared after the meeting, Mr Ablakwa said it was a privilege to co-chair the event alongside South Korea’s Foreign Minister, Cho Hyun.
“It has been an honour co-chairing the 2026 Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with my distinguished colleague host Foreign Minister, H.E. Cho Hyun in South Korea.”
According to him, Africa and South Korea share a common colonial history and are committed to building a stronger partnership focused on economic transformation and opportunities for their citizens.
“Africa and the Republic of Korea have a shared colonial history and are determined to forge a new mutually beneficial partnership which transforms nations and creates opportunities for the people we serve.”
Mr Ablakwa noted that African leaders are increasingly prioritising value addition, industrialisation, job creation and improved returns from trade and investment engagements.
“Africa’s new leaders insist on value addition, industrialization, job creation for the world’s youngest population and better returns on transactions. These are terms South Korea is happy to collaborate with Africa to achieve leveraging its reputation as a technology and manufacturing powerhouse.”
He further outlined ongoing bilateral cooperation between Ghana and South Korea in sectors including energy, agriculture, maritime affairs, education, shipbuilding, roads and healthcare.
“Ghana and South Korea have significant bilateral projects in the energy, agriculture, maritime, education, ship manufacturing, roads and health sectors.”
The Foreign Affairs Minister also announced several major initiatives expected to be rolled out this year.
“This year, our two countries will open a new university in Ghana; establish a West Africa Hyundai Automotive Manufacturing Plant in Ghana and launch new solar irrigation systems.”
He added that both countries had agreed to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, energy and critical minerals.
“Additionally, we agreed to have collaboration in AI and new partnerships for energy and critical minerals.”
On travel and diplomatic relations, Mr Ablakwa revealed that discussions on a visa waiver agreement are advancing positively.
“Ghana and South Korea’s Visa Waiver Negotiations intended to cover all categories of passports are progressing very well with diplomatic and service passport holders already secured yesterday.”
The minister also used the platform to commend South Korea for supporting a Ghana-led United Nations resolution on the transatlantic slave trade.
“During my address, I commended South Korea for supporting the Ghana-led landmark UN resolution declaring the transatlantic enslavement as the gravest crime against humanity.”
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the future of relations between the two countries as they prepare to mark a major diplomatic milestone.
“We look forward to commemorating 50 years of formal diplomatic relations next year.”
Mr Ablakwa concluded by reaffirming his commitment to stronger Africa-Korea relations.
“Long live this impactful and trusted Africa-Korea relations.”
