Opoku-Agyemang Touts 24-Hour Economy as Ghana Strengthens Ties with China
Vice President Jane Opoku-Agyemang has underscored Ghana’s commitment to deepening ties with China while highlighting the government’s determination to ensure that such cooperation supports the country’s domestic development agenda, particularly the 24-Hour Economy Programme.
In a message delivered during the celebration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 65th anniversary of Ghana–China diplomatic relations, she extended warm congratulations to the Chinese people on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama. She described the occasion as both historic and symbolic, noting that the friendship between Ghana and China has endured through the decades because it was founded on mutual trust, solidarity, and respect.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang reflected on the pivotal role played by Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and China’s Chairman Mao Zedong in laying the foundation for this bilateral partnership. She observed that the vision and values they espoused continue to guide the two countries, leading to fruitful cooperation in areas such as trade, health, education, and infrastructure.
The Vice President emphasized that the Mahama administration is determined to ensure that this long-standing relationship translates into direct benefits for Ghanaians. She said the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy Programme remains at the heart of this effort, as it is designed to create jobs, expand opportunities, and drive innovation in sectors including energy, renewable power, and commerce.
According to her, Ghana’s approach to international cooperation is built on fairness and inclusivity. She stressed the importance of pursuing partnerships that deliver balanced gains for both countries, especially in ways that uplift the most vulnerable members of society. She praised ongoing initiatives such as medical collaborations and educational exchanges, which she said have already improved lives in Ghana.
As an example of the impact of Ghana–China cooperation, she highlighted the Aflao Market project. She described it as a transformative initiative that will provide safer and more dignified working conditions for market women, while simultaneously boosting economic activity in the region.
Looking to the future, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang expressed confidence that more Ghanaian businesses would be able to take advantage of opportunities in China, even as Chinese enterprises continue to invest in Ghana’s growth agenda. She concluded her message with a call for renewed commitment to the partnership, expressing hope that the bonds between the two countries would continue to grow stronger.
