Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on Diplomatic Missions in Ghana to ensure that Ghanaian nationals seeking visas are treated with dignity and respect.

Speaking at a diplomatic gathering at the Jubilee House on Thursday, February 27, Mr Ablakwa stated that his Ministry has been inundated with complaints regarding the poor treatment of visa applicants at various embassies and consulates.

He stated that all individuals pursuing travel documents should be accorded fair and humane treatment.

“We would like to entreat all Diplomatic Missions in Ghana to ensure that they treat our nationals who visit their premises in pursuit of their visa applications with dignity and respect,” he said.

Mr Ablakwa also urged embassies to improve conditions for visa applicants by providing conducive waiting areas, reasonable appointment times, emergency services, and resolving challenges with online visa application platforms.

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While acknowledging that some diplomatic missions have made significant improvements in their processes, he encouraged others to follow suit to ensure a seamless and respectful experience for Ghanaians.

His remarks were part of a broader address on Ghana’s foreign policy, which emphasised strengthening international partnerships, promoting economic diplomacy, and addressing global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and food insecurity.

Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to multilateralism and cooperation with international organisations, including the African Union (AU), ECOWAS, and the United Nations (UN), in tackling global issues.

He assured the Diplomatic Missions that Ghana remains open to dialogue and collaboration to enhance diplomatic and economic relationships while safeguarding the rights and dignity of its citizens.