As part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the Republic of Ghana and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the inaugural session of political consultations between the two countries was held on Monday, January 26, in Accra.

The consultations explored avenues for enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including diplomacy, trade and investment, defence, health, education, agriculture, peace and security, and people-to-people exchanges.

Following the consultations, the Additional Foreign Secretary and leader of the Pakistani delegation, Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable James Gyakye Quayson (MP), to brief him on the deliberations.

The Deputy Minister welcomed Ambassador Khan and his delegation and expressed optimism that sustained dialogue would enable both countries to translate the outcomes of the consultations into tangible benefits for their peoples.

Ambassador Khan assured the Deputy Minister of Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the consultations for the mutual benefit of both countries.

He further indicated that discussions were at an advanced stage towards finalising a visa waiver arrangement for holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports.

He added that a Pakistani delegation would embark on a trade mission to Ghana in the near future, with a view to strengthening private sector relations and promoting economic growth.

Both sides expressed confidence that the strengthened cooperation would usher in a new phase in Ghana–Pakistan relations.