The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Wednesday, 18th February, 2026, received the Open Letters of the Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Angola, Rui Orlando Ferreira De Ceita Da Silva Xavier, underscoring strengthened ties between the two African nations.
In welcoming the Ambassador-designate, Minister Ablakwa recalled the long-standing fraternal relations and the shared Pan-African ideals that underpin Ghana-Angola ties. He emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration across sectors such as oil and gas, transport, agriculture, higher education, science and technology, and culture.
The Republic of Ghana was among the first countries to accord recognition to the Republic of Angola in December 1975 after it attained independence from Portugal. Subsequently, a diplomatic mission was established in Luanda in 1976, and the first Ghanaian Ambassador to Angola was appointed on 8th October, 1976. Ghana has since maintained diplomatic relations, with consistent presence in Luanda, Angola.
Angola is a major hydrocarbon producer in Africa, ranking among the continent’s top oil exporters. Ghana’s own offshore oil industry, developed since 2010, presents natural synergy for cooperation. Both governments have previously held the 6th Session of the Ghana-Angola Bilateral Commission for Cooperation, which saw nine Memoranda of Understanding signed covering areas including petroleum, tourism, broadcasting and education.
Trade data shows that bilateral commercial exchange, though still developing, reflects growing economic engagement. In 2023, Ghana’s exports to Angola were valued at about US$18.7 million, including vehicles, machinery and steel products, while Angola’s exports to Ghana amounted to approximately US$11.6 million, with key exports including construction materials and boats.
Additionally, Angola imported goods valued at US$27.8 million from Ghana in 2023, highlighting areas of industrial and consumer trade that can be deepened.
Beyond trade, the two nations have agreed on several legal instruments to enhance cooperation in transport, agriculture, oil and gas, justice, tourism and innovation, reinforcing institutional links such as between Angola’s Private Investment and Export Promotion Agency (AIPEX) and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).
Ambassador-designate Xavier pledged to contribute to expanding existing cooperation during his tenure. He highlighted opportunities for joint ventures, private sector partnerships, and technical exchange to advance mutual interests and contribute towards sustainable development.
The meeting concluded with assurances from both sides of continued cooperation, setting the stage for the 7th Session of the Ghana-Angola Bilateral Cooperation Commission in Ghana later this year, which is expected to unlock further economic and diplomatic opportunities.
Related Posts
