Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says Ghana’s pursuit of a partnership with BRICS reflects the independent foreign policy tradition championed by the country’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, October 17, Mr Ablakwa clarified that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration was seeking partner status with the grouping rather than full membership.
He linked the initiative to the spirit of the Non-Aligned Movement, of which Dr Nkrumah was a founding leader, saying the government was reawakening Ghana’s longstanding commitment to an independent voice in international affairs.
His explanation placed the historical connection in Ghana’s foreign policy outlook, rather than suggesting that an application to join BRICS began under Dr Nkrumah.
“With all due respect, the foreign policy of Ghana will not be dictated by other countries, with all due respect. We cherish the cordial relationship with the United States of America, but Article 40 of our constitution is very clear that our foreign policy consideration must be guided by our national interest,”
“Ghana is a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, which was established in 1961. It was Osagyefo Dr Nkrumah who rallied President Tito, President Abdel Nasser, and the Prime Ministers of India and Indonesia to form the Non-Aligned Movement,” he said.
Mr Ablakwa maintained that Ghana’s international partnerships would be guided by its national interests and would not be determined by other countries.
His comments followed criticism of the proposed BRICS partnership, including concerns about its potential implications for Ghana’s relations with the United States.
The Minister argued that the government should retain the freedom to pursue cooperation that advances the country’s interests.