President John Mahama has expressed optimism that ongoing cooperation between Ghana and the Czech Republic will lead to deeper and more fruitful bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of vocational training and industrial development.

The President made this statement on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, while addressing a joint conference at the Jubilee House in Accra during the three-day state visit of the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, to Ghana.

Mr Mahama reflected on past collaborations and outlined opportunities for future partnerships.

Central to his remarks was the Ghana Labour Export Programme an initiative launched during his tenure to equip young Ghanaians with internationally recognised vocational skills for fixed-term employment abroad.

“On the issue of vocation and technical training, I introduced the Ghana Labour Export Programme to train youth to international proficiency, to be able to work on fixed terms abroad,” he said.

He added “I also sought cooperation with the Czech Republic for vocational training.”

He further highlighted the successful partnership between the Czech government and Ghana’s Defence Industries Holding Company (DIHOC), which was instrumental in reviving the Kumasi Shoe Factory a once dormant facility that now plays a renewed role in local manufacturing.

Mr Mahama revealed that discussions are underway to explore additional joint ventures between DIHOC and the Czech private sector.

“We therefore discuss the possibility of further cooperation between DIHOC and the Czech private sector to go into more industries for mutual benefit,” he noted.

Looking ahead to the Ghana-Czech Business Forum scheduled for tomorrow, he expressed hope that the engagements would yield lasting benefits for both nations.

“Following our meeting this afternoon, I am hopeful that the outcomes of our fruitful discussions and the business forum tomorrow will contribute to deepening the relations that exist between Ghana and the Czech Republic in all areas of endeavour for the mutual benefit of our two peoples.” he mentioned.

He concluded by extending a warm welcome to President Pavel and his delegation, wishing them a productive and enjoyable stay in Accra.