President John Dramani Mahama has stated that the reversal of the United States visa restrictions on Ghana was negotiated in Ghana’s best interest.
“Many of you are aware that Ghana became the only country subject to US visa restrictions to secure a complete reversal from the Trump administration,” President Mahama said, when he formally commissioned 11 new envoys at the Presidency in Accra.
“Let me state clearly that this outcome was negotiated in Ghana’s best interest,” he said.
The President noted that one of the key points in their negotiation with the US authorities was their agreement to address the issue of overstayers who travel on student visas, and others who travel as part of official government delegations.
“I mean, these are people who go, and instead of coming back, they decide to stay. And so, they have the records,” he said.
“When they draw the threshold and you’re above it, then they cancel your five-year visas and bring you to B-5, B-3.
“We assured them that we’ll work with them to make sure that our people are not overstaying, therefore, those of you applying for visas, please, when you go, come back, because you affect everybody else,” he said.
President Mahama emphasised that there was no financial consideration as part of the understanding between Ghana and the United States.
He said negotiations were still ongoing with regards to the trade tariffs of 15 per cent and the renewal of the Africa Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was a zero tariff on African nations.
AGOA seeks to assist the economies of sub-Saharan Africa and to improve economic relations between the United States and the region.
“I wish to assure my countrymen and women that our understanding with the US does not undermine our sovereignty, security, or stability,” President Mahama said.
“Ghana will not, and I repeat, will not become a dumping ground for deportees, nor will we accept individuals with criminal backgrounds,” he added.
He said the understanding with the United States was limited, carefully vetted, and aligned with ECOWAS protocols.
He noted that it reflected Ghana’s Pan-African commitment to regional cooperation while safeguarding the country’s dignity and sovereignty.
The President urged the new envoys to check this clarity whenever questions arise.
“Diplomacy involves more than just negotiation. It also encompasses managing perceptions and safeguarding your nation’s reputation,” he said.
Source: GNA
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