By Iddi Yire, GNA
Accra, Nov 25, GNA – Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has addressed the Seventh African Union-European Union (EU) in Luanda, Angola, where she conveyed warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and congratulated Angolans on their 50th independence celebration.
“We are grateful to the Government of Angola and the African Union Commission for their warm hospitality,” she said.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang reflected in on the AU–EU partnership, which was built on shared values and a commitment to development.
She highlighted the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) as one of their greatest achievements, which enabled African-led responses to conflict.
However, she noted that Africa continued to face deepening vulnerabilities, from climate shocks to geopolitical tensions and piracy and called for urgent, coordinated action to address the challenges.
Vice President Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said Ghana entered the summit with renewed confidence.
She explained that “Our 2026 budget, for instance, rests on three pillars that align with AU–EU priorities: Restoring macroeconomic stability, investing in infrastructure and connectivity, and placing jobs and human capital at the centre of policy.”
She said this would strengthen Ghana’s ability to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s transformation agenda.
She also called for sustained financial, technical, and logistical support from partners to reinforce the AU’s Peace and Security Protocol.
Focusing on West Africa, Vice President Prof. Opoku-Agyemang underscored the region’s dynamic economies and vibrant youth.
“However, the region also faces challenges, notably, violent extremism driven by poverty, exclusion, and resource pressures,” she said.
She announced Ghana’s intention to convene a meeting on extremism to enhance regional coordination.
The Vice President welcomed the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative and its €150 billion commitment to Africa’s sustainable development.
She also emphasised Ghana’s priorities, including: An EU waiver for offshore patrols, Support for replacing essential components of the Kpone Hydro Dam, and Assistance for the Damongo Water Facility.
She observed that 2025 was the African Union’s Year for Reparations, with Ghana serving as the AU Champion.
She said Ghana was preparing to table a UN resolution recognising the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade as one of history’s gravest crimes against humanity and urged European partners to join as co-authors.
The Vice President also commended the European Group for their support of the Africa Group at the UN Human Rights Council.
GNA
Edited by Christabel Addo