Accra, Nov 10 – Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Ghanaian Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia met in Accra, where they affirmed their commitment to enhance defense cooperation between their nations. During the discussions, both leaders reiterated that Prague would supply L-39NG aircraft and Czech firearms to Ghana, underlining the importance of bolstering military capabilities.

Prime Minister Fiala, addressing a Ghanaian-Czech business forum, identified mining and energy industries as new promising sectors for collaboration. Describing Ghana as a key trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, he emphasized the need to elevate economic relations to a new level.

Fiala commended Ghana’s role in stabilizing the region and highlighted the Czech Republic’s contribution to Ghana’s security through military equipment supply and pilot training. He announced two new projects – the delivery of six L-39NG aircraft and Czech-made rifles.

Beyond defense cooperation, Fiala praised Ghana’s embrace of economic reforms, citing Czech initiatives such as infrastructure projects like bridges and hospitals in the country. He proposed negotiations on new air transport agreements during discussions with Vice President Bawumia.

As part of the broader collaboration, Czech doctors are engaged in Ghana through the MEDEVAC mission, performing medical procedures and training local healthcare professionals. The business forum in Accra featured nearly 20 Czech companies, primarily from the defense and healthcare sectors, with over 50 Ghanaian companies in attendance.

Fiala presented the Czech Republic as a reliable, open country with a rich tradition of quality manufacturing, emphasizing the strength of its automotive and defense industries. Humphrey Ayim-Darke, President of the Association of Ghana Industries, acknowledged the longstanding bilateral trade relations dating back to the 1960s and highlighted potential areas for investment, including agricultural equipment and new technologies.

Ghana, with a population of approximately 32 million, ranks among the top five Czech trade partners in the region. Last year, Czech exports to Ghana exceeded half a billion crowns, encompassing metal structures, computer technology, prams, toys, and medical equipment. In return, Ghana exported products such as fruit, rubber, cocoa, fish, and wood to the Czech Republic.

Prime Minister Fiala’s visit to Ghana is part of his week-long tour of sub-Saharan Africa, reinforcing diplomatic ties and exploring avenues for economic collaboration. After Ghana, Fiala proceeded to the Ivory Coast, marking the penultimate stop on his African tour.

Article by Prague Forum