The Vice President, John Dramani Mahama, on Wednesday commended Dr. Kwame Addo Kufuor, a former Minister of Defence, for his initiative at ensuring that the dream of constructing an ultra modern office complex for the Ministry of Defence came to fruition. The 50 million dollar, 120 rooms building was constructed by Qing Dao Construction and Development Limited of China and took 18 months to complete. Inaugurating it, Mr. Mahama said the building was a manifestation of the goodwill that existed between the Ghana government and that of the People's Republic of China, adding that it is a living testimony of the bonds of friendship between China and Ghana which is amply captured in stone, concrete, marble and granite for this and future generations. He said the edifice will serve as the fortress in which plans and decisions to protect the sovereignty and strategic interest of the two nations will be taken. The Vice President said the 50 million grant from the Chinese government, was virtually saying that apart from the Defence Ministry, the Chinese would be remembered with the National Theatre building, among other structures, that have been constructed. He commended the administration of ex-President J.A Kufuor for its initiative of starting the project and reiterated government's commitment to continue with all desirable projects started by previous regimes. He commended the military for their commitment at defending the country. "We need to be prepared not just to keep up with changes but also to anticipate and confront the newer challenges, such as protecting the oil industry, eliminating drug trafficking and maintaining a full grasp of elements of peace and stability beyond our borders," he said. The Vice President also announced government's commitment to the draft framework for a common African and security policy as espoused by the African Union and would subscribe to the establishment of an African standby force. The military, he said would be well equipped with new technologies and strategies to ensure efficiency, confidence, and boost the morale of personnel. The Minister of Defence, Lt. General Joseph Henry Smith, said the opening of the new office had come as a memorable occasion adding that for the past 50 years, the ministry had operated from a military barracks style building which was designed for a smaller number of people after the World War I. He said the ambiance of the building alone would improve morale and enrich performance of personnel and commended the Beijing Architectural Design and Research institute for their tolerance and attention which had brought the building this far. The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Yu Wenzhe, said Ghana and China had had a long standing relationship adding that the building would go a long way to foster that relationship. Dr. Addo Kufuor who initiated the project said since his entry into politics, his interest was to serve the citizenry and the nation adding that he was particularly happy that most of his dreams had come to fruition. He mentioned the construction of the Burma Hall and the face-lifting the 37 Military Hospital among other projects that he initiated when he was the minister. He commended Amalgamated Group Company Limited, a construction firm, for the initial design works. Lt. Gen. J.H. Smith, the Defence Minister, in his welcome address thanked all those who had served the ministry in the past and present. As part of the programme, Dr. Addo Kufuor and other former Defence ministers, and other staff of the ministry were honoured for their dedicated service. They included Alhaji Mahama Iddrisu, Real Admiral Djang, Dr. Tony Aidoo and Dr. Ayirebi Acquah. Others were Mr. William Ofori Boafo, former Deputy Minister of Defence, and Mrs. Fidelia Sampedey a retired secretary who was rewarded for 33 years of service. Source: The Ghanaian Times