China’s Ambassador Cong Song says people-to-people exchanges are key to strengthening Ghana-China relations

China's Ambassador to Ghana, Cong Song, has highlighted the critical role of people-to-people exchanges in deepening mutual understanding and bolstering long-term cooperation between Ghana and China. During the 2026 Ghana-China Media Fellowship in Accra, Ambassador Song emphasised that the future of the relationship was not solely dependent on trade, investment, and infrastructure, but equally on fostering stronger human connections through education, culture, and professional exchanges.

He underscored the importance of mutual respect and engagement in promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable cooperation, asserting that differences in history, culture, and development levels should be seen as opportunities for learning and collaboration rather than barriers. The Ambassador noted significant growth in exchanges between the two nations, particularly in education, culture, and professional development, with a notable trend of Ghanaian students pursuing higher education and professional training in China, alongside increasing Chinese language education and cultural programs in Ghana.

Song also pointed out the increasing participation of journalists, researchers, artists, and young professionals from both countries in cross-cultural initiatives. He highlighted the designation of 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges as a vital platform for expanding collaboration in education, tourism, media, youth development, and cultural dialogue across the continent, complementing economic and diplomatic engagements by strengthening interpersonal relationships.

However, Ambassador Song stressed the necessity for genuine mutual understanding to be reciprocal, advocating for greater visibility of Ghanaian and African histories, cultures, and perspectives in China, as well as the growing interest in Chinese culture and development experiences in Ghana. He identified language barriers, inadequate public knowledge, and stereotypes as challenges that need addressing, emphasizing the media's crucial role in providing balanced, accurate, and informed reporting to foster trust and constructive dialogue.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Song expressed confidence that the long-term strength of Ghana-China relations would hinge not only on governmental agreements, trade volumes, and infrastructure projects, but also on the ability of ordinary citizens from both countries to interact, learn from each other, and build lasting friendships. He believed sustained cultural and educational exchanges would further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between Ghana and China, contributing to closer cooperation within China-Africa relations.