By Hannah Dadzie
A new chapter in Ghana–Peru relations has been highlighted with the launch of a commemorative publication documenting nearly 40 years of friendship, cooperation and shared diplomatic milestones between the two nations.
The book, titled Ghana–Peru Relations: A Journey of Friendship and Cooperation, was officially launched in Accra by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, alongside the Ambassador of Peru to Ghana, Liliana Gómez de Weston.
The publication chronicles nearly four decades of diplomatic engagement between Ghana and Peru, highlighting key milestones, shared historical experiences and growing cooperation in areas such as trade, culture and diplomacy.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Ablakwa described the book as an important documentation of the enduring partnership between the two countries. He noted that despite being separated by the Atlantic Ocean, Ghana and Peru share common values rooted in democracy, multilateralism and inclusive development.
“This commemorative book is therefore both a reflection and a roadmap of where we have come from and where we want to be. Today’s book launch is a reminder that diplomacy is not only conducted through instruments such as treaties and communiqués, but is also nurtured through people-to-people contact, cultural appreciation and intellectual exchanges,” he said.
The minister commended Ambassador Gómez de Weston for initiating the documentation of the relations, describing the effort as both historic and significant for diplomatic practice.
“I have had the pleasure of reading this publication. It is a beautiful piece with pictorial evidence of the journey so far. I therefore encourage everyone to get a copy of this seminal work. Ambassador Liliana Gómez de Weston is certainly an exceptional diplomat who has spent her life embodying intellectual drive and diplomatic excellence,” Mr Ablakwa added.
According to the Foreign Minister, Ghana and Peru share similar historical experiences shaped by colonialism and struggles for independence, which have influenced their cooperation and mutual understanding on the global stage.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established in 1987 and have steadily expanded over the years through mutual respect and a shared commitment to South–South cooperation.
Mr Ablakwa noted that the opening of Peru’s Embassy in Accra in 2014 marked a significant milestone in deepening engagement, while the establishment of a structured political consultation mechanism has further strengthened institutional dialogue between the two nations.
He also highlighted the roles played by global leaders from both countries at the United Nations, referencing former UN Secretaries-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar of Peru and Kofi Annan of Ghana.
Mr Ablakwa said that in the current global environment, marked by shifting alliances, economic uncertainty and climate challenges, stronger partnerships between countries such as Ghana and Peru are essential.
He explained that Ghana’s foreign policy continues to focus on expanding diplomatic and economic partnerships beyond traditional regions, particularly across Latin America and the Caribbean. Peru, he noted, represents a natural partner due to its dynamic economy, mineral resources, agricultural innovation and strong trade linkages across the Pacific.
For her part, Ambassador Gómez de Weston said the book was produced to commemorate nearly four decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries and more than a decade since Peru established its embassy in Ghana.
She explained that the publication captures major events and legal instruments that have shaped the relationship while highlighting diplomatic, cultural and economic exchanges that have strengthened cooperation.
The ambassador said both nations share similar historical trajectories as states that emerged from emancipatory struggles, emphasising the legacy of Kwame Nkrumah in shaping Ghana’s national identity and independence movement.
She said relations between the two countries have continued to grow through political consultations, trade promotion initiatives and cultural exchanges, with discussions underway on several bilateral agreements.
Ambassador Gómez de Weston also highlighted Peru’s interest in strengthening trade ties with Ghana and promoting its export products, particularly agricultural “superfoods”, while exploring investment opportunities between the two countries.
She added that both nations are looking ahead to the celebration of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027, which is expected to be marked by major initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation.
The book launch brought together members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, government officials and academics.
Both Ghana and Peru expressed optimism that the publication will serve not only as a reflection of past achievements but also as a roadmap for strengthening political, economic and cultural relations in the years ahead.
