Story By: Lawrence Odoom
GHANA’S Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for deeper partnership between Africa and Europe to support the continent’s peace, development, and long-term transformation.
She made the call at the 7th African Union–European Union Summit in Luanda, Angola, where she delivered a strong message of hope and cooperation on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also congratulated Angola on its 50th independence anniversary and thanked the government and people for their warm hospitality.
The Vice President stressed that the AU–EU relationship must focus on shared values and practical solutions to Africa’s growing challenges. She highlighted the importance of African-led peace efforts such as the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), while urging coordinated action to address climate shocks, insecurity, and geopolitical tensions.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang explained that Ghana comes into the summit with confidence, backed by a solid 2026 budget that focuses on restoring the economy, improving infrastructure, and creating jobs—key areas that align with AU–EU priorities.
She also drew attention to the potential of West Africa’s youthful population but noted that issues like violent extremism continue to threaten stability. She announced that Ghana will soon host a regional meeting on extremism to strengthen cooperation in tackling the problem.
Welcoming the EU’s €150 billion Global Gateway Initiative for Africa, the Vice President outlined Ghana’s priority areas, including support for offshore security operations, replacing key components of the Kpone Hydro Dam, and upgrading the Damongo Water Facility.
As the African Union marks the “Year for Reparations,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said Ghana will lead efforts at the United Nations to recognize the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade as a serious crime against humanity. She urged European countries to join the resolution as co-sponsors to promote justice and reconciliation.
She ended her address by thanking European partners for supporting Africa at the UN Human Rights Council and called for renewed commitment to Africa’s development agenda.
Source: Nationaltymes.com
