Ghana extends olive branch to South Africa despite strained ties over xenophobic attacks
By Hannah Dadzie Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, says government remains committed to maintaining cordial relations with South Africa despite recent xenophobic attacks that forced the evacuation of nearly 2,000 Ghanaians from the country. Speaking to the media in Accra, Mr Ablakwa acknowledged that the recent developments had strained relations between the two […]
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has affirmed the nation’s resolve to maintain friendly relations with South Africa despite recent xenophobic attacks that led to the evacuation of nearly 2,000 Ghanaians. Speaking to the media, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized the importance of diplomacy and peaceful engagement in overcoming strained relations between the two countries.
Acknowledging the impact of the recent incidents on bilateral ties, Mr. Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s commitment to friendship and dialogue. He stated that Ghana's foreign policy remains focused on friendship and dialogue, ensuring that the needed rapprochement occurs and the olive branch remains extended.
Historically, Ghana has demonstrated its commitment to Pan-Africanism by providing refuge to South African freedom fighters during the apartheid era. Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that Ghana's contributions to South Africa's anti-apartheid struggle should not be forgotten and would not be allowed to be overshadowed by temporary tensions.
The Minister emphasized the importance of not allowing the efforts and sacrifices made in the past to go to waste. He expressed pride in Ghana's actions taken in good faith, fighting any form of discrimination and defending the principle of African unity.
Mr. Ablakwa commended the Ghanaians for their refusal to engage in reprisals against South Africans living and operating businesses in their country. Currently, more than 3,000 South Africans reside in Ghana and continue to receive protection and hospitality.
Throughout the xenophobic attacks, Mr. Ablakwa had consistently urged Ghanaians to refrain from targeting South African nationals or businesses in retaliation. He highlighted the contrast between Ghana's response and reports of reprisals against South African businesses in other countries.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that Ghana would continue to engage South African authorities to ensure adequate protection for Ghanaians and other African nationals residing in the country. He also noted that South African authorities have reported more than 300 arrests made in connection with the anti-immigrant violence.
With optimism, Mr. Ablakwa expressed the hope that Ghana and South Africa will work towards restoring and strengthening their historic relationship, despite recent tensions.
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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