Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced plans to deepen security cooperation with Burkina Faso following a deadly extremist attack in Titao that claimed the lives of eight Ghanaians.
Speaking at a press briefing in Burkina Faso on Friday, February 20, the Foreign Affairs Minister disclosed that both countries have initiated discussions on a new joint security framework to confront the growing terrorist threat in the sub-region.
Joint resolve against extremism
Mr Ablakwa said the governments of Ghana and Burkina Faso have strongly condemned the recent violent extremist attack in the northern Burkinabè town of Titao, which left several civilians dead, including Ghanaian nationals.
“We have decided to deepen our security cooperation,” he stated. “We are currently negotiating a security framework which will help us to work together and collectively to neutralise these violent extremists.”
He emphasised that both nations are committed to ensuring that the region does not become a sanctuary for terrorist groups.
“We do not want our region to become the haven of these terrorists. We don’t like the fact that this has become the epicentre of global terror,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa further indicated that leaders across the region are united in their resolve to confront extremism.
“We are determined as leaders to uproot this canker and to make sure that these violent extremists are neutralised,” he added.
Condolences and appreciation
The minister also reiterated Ghana’s condolences to the families of the victims and expressed sympathy to the people of Burkina Faso following the tragic incident.
He commended the Burkinabè authorities for their swift emergency response, particularly their assistance in evacuating injured Ghanaians.
“We want to thank the government of Burkina Faso for the rapid response in helping us to evacuate our injured and airlifting them back to Ghana,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa noted that Ghana was impressed by the manner in which authorities contained the situation and restored calm.
The proposed bilateral security framework is expected to strengthen intelligence sharing, enhance coordinated operations, and broaden counter-terrorism collaboration between the two neighbouring countries as West Africa grapples with escalating extremist threats.
