Deputy Minister of Information, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa who is a member of Government’s delegation to the United Nation’s 65th session and High-Level Plenary on MDGs has described the deliberations and their outcomes as positive. He indicated that such sessions are significant because they remind Governments that they are not only accountable to their citizens but also to humanity in general through the United Nations. Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa pointed out that the equal opportunity the UN gives every government to speak to their stewardship and strategies for solving the people’s problems only reaffirms the global call to duty that all citizens and governments of the world have a duty to protect, preserve and promote humanity. He pointed out that it was clear from the deliberations and assessments that Ghana is without challenges but certainly on course to meet the MDGs by 2015. He said side meetings were held that focused on areas where Ghana was most challenged; that is, in reducing infant mortality, improving maternal delivery and improving environmental sanitation and expressed optimism about the outcomes for Ghana. He applauded the international community for their pledge of commitment to assist developing countries in meeting the MDGs and addressing development deficits. He said, “that no developed country used the global financial crisis as an excuse to renege [on their promises] is worthy of commendation.” Mr. Okudzeto Ablakwa said Ghanaians have to be proud of themselves for the recognition the country continues to receive at such global platforms and rededicate themselves to the principles of hard work and patriotism which he said is the surest way of becoming a developed nation. He emphasized that ultimately it is the decisions we take and what we do as a country that will lead to a fair, just and prosperous society where no Ghanaian is denied any opportunity. At the session, China promised to cancel debts to developing countries that mature in 2010. France pledged to increase by 20% their contribution to the Global Fund. US President Barrack Obama who cited successes in Ghana announced a shift in US policy that focuses on development rather than mere aid to developing countries. Ghana’s delegation was led by the Foreign Minister, Alhaji Muhammad Mumuni who represented President Mills and addressed the General Assembly on his behalf. Whilst in New York, they held wide range of meetings with state and non-state actors including one on transparency in the mining and oil sector with the respected Jeffrey Sachs and George Soros. They also renewed solidarity with organizations such as The African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) which is headed by a son of the land, Dr. Muhammad Ibn Chambas and the Socialist International who also commended their brother and comrade John Atta Mills for his stewardship so far. The delegation also held meetings with the staff of the Permanent Mission of Ghana and toured the Mission’s offices undergoing maintenance. The delegation is expected to end its duties in New York this weekend. Source: Ministry of Information