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President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated Ghana’s unwavering commitment towards the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He said the Government of Ghana remained unwavering to its commitment to achieve the SDGs and would work closely with the United Nations and member states of the UN in the promotion of global peace and security during turbulent times marked by geopolitical tensions. “Our collective vigilance is essential to curb threats such as terrorism and also to address the impact of climate change, two pressing international issues that require our immediate attention and action,” President Mahama stated in his address at the 2025 Exchange of New Year Greetings, the first since his assumption of office on the 7th of January, for a second term in office.
The President on behalf of the Government and the People of Ghana and in his own name, extended warm wishes to Members of the Diplomatic Community in Ghana for a happy and prosperous 2025. This year, the event was organized with a difference at the Presidency in Accra, instead of Peduase Lodge in the Eastern Region.
The President said this formal gathering with Members of the Diplomatic Corps represents a renewed hope for partnership and promise of new beginnings as we step into the year 2025. “On this occasion, we affirm our commitment to nurturing the bonds of friendship, cooperation and goodwill that exists between Ghana and your respective countries,” he said.
The President said Ghana’s membership of and active engagement in organisations like the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) showcases their dedication to advancing social and developmental goals through international collaboration. He said their focus on regional stability within ECOWAS remained paramount, recognising the deep connections between regional stability and national security.
“The safety of our nation is intertwined with the security of our neighbours, and therefore fortifying our border security is essential for safeguarding our nation’s safety and preserving our sovereignty,” President Mahama said. “We understand that stability is the foundation upon which sustainable development is built, and we are committed to cooperating in key regional initiatives, including relations and collaboration with the Alliance of Sahelian States.”
The President said this alliance emphasised collaboration among member countries in addressing security challenges and combating terrorism and fostering economic development. He said by working with their Sahelian partners, they could reinforce their collective efforts to ensure peace and stability in the West African sub-region, which was crucial for the prosperity of all their nations.
He said good governance was the bedrock of Ghana’s foreign policy, and that they uphold transparency and accountability in all their processes to foster trust and constructive relations, not only with their international partners, but everyone else. The President underscored how important protocol was in Ghana’s engagements. He therefore urged all Diplomatic Missions, Consulates and International Organisations in the country to at all times deal with state institutions through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He said the Foreign Affairs Ministry was going to have an open-door policy, and that if they had any problems, they should feel free to contact the Ministry. “In so doing, you will be keeping with the established Diplomatic Protocol and facilitating more efficient and effective collaboration, and thereby enhancing our mutual respect and understanding,” he said.
“Together, let us champion the principles of mutual respect, inclusivity and shared prosperity as we confront the opportunities and challenges of this new year.” He said it was through dialogue, collaboration and collective action that they could navigate the complexities of their times and emerge stronger, united and more resilient as a people.
Source: GNA
