Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey says the government expects the year 2023 to be one of hope and joy.

Speaking during a national day celebration to commemorate Ghana’s 66th independence at the Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria hotel, Italy, she said the year 2022 was unforgettable in many ways, with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the slow start to the global recovery and the ongoing economic challenges.

She said these have inflicted various hardships globally and adversely affected lives but the government of Ghana is determined to address the impact of the global economic downturn.

“Government has since instituted a number of interventions to resolve these concerns and we remain confident that we will witness the results of relief and recovery very soon. As the President of the Republic has always reiterated, 'This too shall pass,"' she said.

The Minister stated that it is noteworthy that under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo, the country is witnessing a total economic transformation with programmes such as Free Senior High School Education, One District One Factory, One Village, One Dam, Planting for Food and Jobs. She said these yielded tremendous results before the economic downturn caused by the pandemic.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey said “Indeed, our economic growth rebounded making Ghana among the fastest-growing economies in the world for three years in a row. The international investor recognised this development, resulting in Ghana being the largest recipient of foreign direct investment in West Africa. We expect the year 2023 to be one of hope and joy”.

Speaking at the event which brought together more than three hundred patrons, Ghana’s Ambassador to Italy, Merene Botsio Benyah called on Ghanaians – both home and abroad to unite and protect Ghana’s democratic credentials and rally behind the government to realise the country’s aspirations.

She said the event serves as a strategic way to market Ghana to the people of Italy and the rest of the world. The ambassador said foreign missions abroad representing the people back at home have a role to play in identifying opportunities in Ghana to attract investors for partnerships. She said that is why the embassy found it necessary to use the occasion to showcase the rich Ghanaian culture.

In his remark, the Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Giuseppe Mistretta commended Ghana for hosting the AfCFTA Secretariat describing it as “a game changer” for the continent and the rest of the world.

The event brought together dignitaries from the host foreign ministry, members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, traditional leaders, businessmen, and the Ghanaian community. It was used to attract investors to Ghana and also make them aware of the numerous economic opportunities available.

It also served as a platform to showcase the country’s rich culture and heritage. There were various made-in-Ghana goods on display as part of the programme. Dignitaries were treated to a rich display of Ghanaian cultural performances.

The mission expressed appreciation to the Ghana International Bank, Zeepay, Sienna Services Ltd, EMH Global Ltd, Team Engineering, Flash Box Srl, Showbiz Global Concert, Urepa, Abici, Cartarredo, the Diplomatic Affairs TV show on Pan African Television and a host of others for making the event successful.