Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim has underscored the need to recalibrate economic diplomacy to support growth and resilience.

She said that could be done by actively facilitating strategic investments, market access, and equitable partnerships.

Speaking at a networking event for diplomats in Accra last Sunday, Ms Muslim said that both developed and developing countries were grappling with rising debts, inflation, and political instability.  

“The distinctions that once defined developed and developing countries are increasingly blurred; vulnerability is now universal.

“No nation has a monopoly on stability anymore, or the wisdom to manage its crisis or resilience. And no country can address today's challenges alone.

This reality demands a recalibration of diplomacy itself,” she said. 

Ms Muslim added that “diplomacy today must increasingly serve as economics and governance, facilitating strategic investment, opening markets for value-added products, encouraging technology transfer, and building partnerships that are fair, that are transparent, and that are mutually beneficial.”

Event

The event, which was organised by Diplomatic Affairs Media and Communications Ltd, a company specialised in strategic communication and public diplomacy, attracted various envoys to network and form strategic partnerships.

It was on the theme “Economic diplomacy and Africa’s industrialisation agenda: Building Africa’s integrated future.”

Also present were industry leaders and business executives, some of whom displayed their products at the event. There was also a launch of a new magazine on diplomatic issues and relations. 
 

Value addition

Ms Muslim advocated value addition to raw products and the integration of regional and global value chains to enhance Africa's economic prospects.

She lauded the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing the initiative as an opportunity for the continent to realise its vision.

Ms Muslim said that under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana had demonstrated its commitment to an economic diplomacy that promoted internal growth and protected natural resources.

She said realising the transformative vision for Africa required collaboration among governments, diplomats, business leaders and development partners.

Forts and castles

The Special Envoy for Reparations, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, stressed the importance of Ghana's historical forts and castles in understanding the legacy of slavery and fostering international relationships.

He said the Museums and Monuments Board would engage with the diplomatic corps to seek support for the restoration of monuments, adding that “even a small investment can lead to significant cultural and educational outcomes.

For her part, the founder and CEO of Diplomatic Affairs Media and Communications Ltd. announced activities lined up for the event to include a free food festival on Christmas Day as a way of giving back to the community.

She pledged continued support for advancing women in leadership and diplomacy, announcing a conference on International Women’s Day aimed at amplifying women’s voices and shaping equitable policies.

Additionally, she revealed plans for the second edition of the Diplomatic Honours in Abuja, which would recognise outstanding individuals and institutions in diplomacy.