The United States Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Virginia E. Palmer, paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Accra.
The discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic relations and addressing pressing bilateral concerns.
During the meeting, Hon. Ablakwa reiterated Ghana’s commitment to fostering strong ties with the United States, highlighting the need for continued collaboration on shared challenges.
Among the key topics discussed were the U.S. government’s temporary suspension of USAID aid to Ghana, the potential withdrawal of the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), and the status of Ghanaian nationals facing deportation.
Ambassador Palmer explained that the USAID funding suspension was a temporary measure, lasting 90 days to allow for an operational review. She expressed optimism that aid would resume once the review was completed, though possibly with some reductions in funding.
Regarding Ghanaian nationals facing deportation from the U.S., Ambassador Palmer confirmed that approximately 156 undocumented Ghanaians could be affected but assured the Minister that none of them had serious criminal records.
Hon. Ablakwa also raised concerns about the potential impact of a U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, stressing that such a move could significantly disrupt critical public health initiatives in Ghana, particularly in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria.
The meeting concluded with both officials reaffirming their commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties and working together on key areas of mutual interest.
