President John Mahama has met with the European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Sahel, João Cravinho, at the Presidency to discuss enhanced cooperation on regional security and development.  

A statement issued by the Presidency said the meeting focused on reinforcing the strategic partnership between the EU and Ghana, particularly in addressing shared challenges related to security, governance, and development in the volatile Sahel region.

President Mahama outlined Ghana's proactive diplomatic efforts to mediate relations with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.   

He raised the urgent need for a unified regional platform, proposing a revitalised Accra Initiative to effectively combat the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa.  

President Mahama confirmed Ghana's commitment to maintaining diplomatic outreach to the Sahel states, with a follow-up visit by the EU Representative planned for early 2026 to translate discussions into concrete projects.  

Both parties agreed to expedite the finalisation and implementation of the EU-Ghana Security and Defence Partnership to foster closer collaboration.  

Mr Cravinho reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Ghana in strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, recognising its critical link to achieving stability in the Sahel.