By James Amoh Junior
Accra, May 9, GNA- Ghana and the European Union have reaffirmed their partnership and commitment to enhanced cooperation at the 2026 Europe Day Reception in Accra.
The event, held at the EU Residence in Accra, brought together diplomats, government officials, traditional leaders, development partners and members of the diplomatic corps to mark 50 years of the European Union’s physical presence in Ghana under the theme “Golden Bridges.”
Mr. Rune Skinnebach, European Union Ambassador to Ghana, speaking at the reception, said the celebration reflected a strong and enduring partnership based on shared values, mutual respect and cooperation.
The evening featured cultural displays, music and cuisine from across Europe, with 14 EU member states in Ghana presenting a range of traditional dishes and beverages.
Guests moved between stands sampling food and drinks that reflected Europe’s cultural diversity, while engaging in conversations in a relaxed atmosphere.
Music by Ghanaian highlife musician Kojo Antwi provided a cultural backdrop, drawing guests into dance and informal interaction that blended diplomatic engagement with cultural expression.
The Europe Day celebration is observed annually on May 9 to mark the formation of the European Union and the principles of peace, solidarity and cooperation associated with the Schuman Declaration of 1950.
Mr. Skinnebach noted that although Accra had undergone significant transformation over the years, Ghana’s warmth, generosity and hospitality remained unchanged.
He said Europe Day commemorated the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Union after World War II and promoted peace through cooperation rather than conflict.
“For over four years, the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has reminded us of the importance of peace, stability and international law, and of why we must defend Europe,” he stated.
The Ambassador said partnerships between countries sharing common principles and democratic values had become increasingly important in a more interconnected world.
He described Ghana as one of the European Union’s most trusted partners in Africa and reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to supporting the country’s development agenda.
“After 50 years of physical presence here in Ghana, we are still the number one development and security partner to Ghana, the number one investor in Ghana, and the number one export market for Ghana,” he said.
Mr Skinnebach said the EU’s Global Gateway Investment Package for Africa aimed to mobilise 150 billion Euros for sustainable investments across the continent.
He said Ghana was expected to benefit from investments in transport infrastructure, energy, digitalisation, education, skills development and governance reforms.
“Already over one billion is allocated to Ghana, and more is on its way,” he disclosed.
Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, who represented the Government of Ghana, commended the European Union for five decades of cooperation with the country.
She said the relationship between Ghana and the EU had expanded beyond development assistance into trade, investment, governance, security and cultural exchange.
“The relationship between Ghana and the European Union is built on trust, shared values and mutual respect,” she said.
Dr Lartey acknowledged EU support for Ghana’s democratic governance, rule of law and human rights promotion, describing the partnership as strategic and beneficial.
She said Ghana remained committed to strengthening its investment environment through transparency, macroeconomic stability and institutional reforms.
“We see the European Union not only as a partner in development but also as a partner of our progress,” she added.
The Minister also welcomed the EU Global Gateway initiative and expressed optimism that future Ghana-EU partnership dialogues would deepen cooperation in climate action, trade facilitation, security and digital transformation.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey