President John Dramani Mahama has welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s pledge to support Ghana in transforming its vast resource wealth into sustainable development through zero-tariff trade.

President Xi made the remarks during bilateral talks with President John Dramani Mahama in Beijing, held on the sidelines of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women.

Mr Mahama described the decision as a clear signal of confidence in the enduring partnership between the two nations. "China's decision to grant zero-tariff access to Ghanaian and African products signals the confidence in our partnership," he said.

He noted that Ghana stands to benefit significantly from Beijing’s zero-tariff policy for African countries, which is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian products in the Chinese market.

"It opens vast new markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors and manufacturers."

He expressed optimism that Ghana’s engagement with China would continue to yield tangible benefits, and hinted that the two countries would sign the agreement by the end of October.

"I am happy to inform you that we have reached an agreement in principle and we have targeted the end of October to be able to sign off on the zero-tariff principle," he noted.

President Mahama then commended the Chinese government, "I wish to commend the government of China for this act of solidarity."