The President of Cote d’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, has lauded Ghana’s President for his exemplary leadership skills.

According to him, despite the global economic crisis, President Akufo-Addo has steered the economy and prevented adverse economic turmoil.

“Your Excellency, dear Nana, my dear friend, and brother, I would love to use this opportunity to commend you for the leadership and the many achievements in Ghana despite the adverse challenges at the global level with covid, the war and Ukraine and obviously in Gaza and Palestine,” he said.

He made these comments whilst delivering his speech as Guest of Honour at the 67th Independence Day Celebration on March 6 at Koforidua in the Eastern Region.

He added that President Akufo-Addo’s leadership skills extended beyond the shores of Ghana to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The Ivorian President added that President Akufo-Addo excelled at the role of ECOWAS President, which is why he did not want his [Ghana's President's] tenure to end.

“I would like to thank you for your commitment to regional, economic integration as shown during your tenure as President of ECOWAS. Yes, you did an exceptional job, an outstanding job, and as the other heads of state know I did not want you to leave. I thought you should continue for many many years," he added.

He seized the opportunity to appreciate the country for its contribution to the success of the recently ended African Cup of Nations.

"I also want to thank Ghana for your contribution to the success of 34 AFCON which took place in Cote d’Ivoire from January 13 to February 11 of this year," he said.

He emphasised that these games were a celebration of friendship and solidarity between Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana.

Again, he congratulated the President and the people of Ghana on their independence.