Ghana, Netherlands deepen cooperation to tackle illicit drug trade

Ghana and the Netherlands have strengthened their partnership to combat the illicit drug trade and associated criminal networks. This commitment was formalised through a special Letter of Intent signed during the Netherlands’ Minister of Justice and Security, D.M. Van Weel, official visit to Ghana.

Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Mr Van Weel, representing the Netherlands, signed the agreement. The pact builds upon the Accra Call to Action and aims to enhance international efforts to disrupt illicit drug markets and the flow of criminal proceeds.

Ablakwa emphasized that illicit drugs pose a significant threat to young people and have far-reaching impacts on public health, the rule of law, and human rights. He expressed confidence that robust international collaboration will effectively eliminate drug markets flooding both countries with cocaine, synthetic substances, and criminal money.

The Foreign Affairs Minister warmly welcomed Mr Van Weel to Ghana, expressing appreciation for his visit and describing him as a friend. The agreement is anticipated to facilitate closer cooperation between the two nations in their joint efforts to disrupt illicit drug networks and combat related criminal activities.