By Hannah Dadzie
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to strengthening democracy, peace, and development within the Commonwealth. He made the remarks when he addressed the 25th Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (CFAMM) held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Mr. Ablakwa congratulated the new Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Right Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. He described her historic appointment as a moment of pride for Ghana and the wider Commonwealth family, praising her leadership in advancing reform and renewal within the organization. The Minister also commended the Chair of the meeting, Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister, Honourable Tolupe Mutele-Luku Osisoma.
Reflecting on the theme of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Commonwealth,” Mr Ablakwa highlighted the importance of the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, noting Ghana’s priorities of enhancing governance, accountability, and citizen participation. He also underscored the significance of reparatory justice as a path to addressing historical legacies and fostering deeper solidarity among member states.
On the critical issue of climate action, the Foreign Affairs Minister urged urgent and collective efforts to confront the mounting effects of climate change, referencing the devastating impacts of extreme weather events across Africa and the Caribbean. He reaffirmed Ghana’s support for the Made in Commonwealth Ocean Declaration and called on member states to leverage the Commonwealth platform to drive sustainability and secure a greener future for generations.
