Mahama has appointed special envoy to work on return of Mali, others to ECOWAS – Ablakwa

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed that President John Mahama has initiated diplomatic efforts to bring back Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Speaking on TV3’s Key Points programme on Saturday, February 8, Mr Ablakwa said President Mahama has already formed a special envoy to hold talks with leaders of the three junta-led nations and is scheduled to embark on diplomatic visits in the coming weeks.

“President Mahama is leading the charge to ensure that Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso return to the ECOWAS fold.

“He is actively holding talks and has appointed a special envoy to facilitate the process. I have no doubt that, given his track record in diplomacy, he will succeed,” Mr Ablakwa said.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced their breakaway from ECOWAS in January 2024, citing dissatisfaction with the regional bloc’s stance on governance and security issues.

They have a six-month grace period to come back following their exit.

Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the Mahama-led government would prioritize economic diplomacy and strategize its foreign relations to impact livelihoods.

“We are determined to demystify foreign affairs. Diplomacy should not be abstract but should yield tangible benefits for ordinary Ghanaians. We will prioritise economic diplomacy and ensure that our international relations impact people’s livelihoods,” he asserted.

He also discussed Ghana’s possible involvement with the BRICS economic group, which is made up of South Africa, China, India, Russia, and Brazil.

According to the North Tongu MP, the Mahama-led administration would carefully weigh the advantages of joining BRICS while preserving strategic ties with established partners like the IMF and World Bank.

“The world is shifting towards multipolar alliances, and Ghana cannot be left behind. We must explore all options, including forging stronger ties with BRICS, to ensure that our economic interests are well-positioned on the global stage,” he noted.

Addressing the broader vision for regional cooperation, Ablakwa reaffirmed Mahama’s steadfast dedication to Pan-Africanism, stating that Mahama will rebuild Ghana’s relations with neighbouring countries.

“President Mahama is an ardent believer in Pan-Africanism. He understands that Africa’s strength lies in unity, integration, and economic collaboration. We cannot continue to trade more with Europe and Asia than we do with each other. That is why he is focused on rebuilding regional ties,” he explained.