Accra: The government of Israel will remain 'relevant' to Ghana's developmental efforts, following the smooth transition of power to the new administration, Mr. Roey Gilad, Ambassador of Israel to Ghana, has said. Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, he emphasised the Israeli government's commitment to work closely with President John Mahama's administration as it did under the tenure of former President Akufo-Addo.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Gilad stated that both nations would deepen partnership in agriculture and explore other areas such as solar energy and cyber security. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the new President, noting, "It is clear the new President [Mahama] has a heavy weight to lift.Israel is not a superpower but what we have is a lot of goodwill, and lot of appreciation and love for Africa in general, and Ghana in particular." Mr. Gilad assured that Israel would do its utmost to be relevant to the new administration that commenced on January 7, 2025, and assist as much as possible.
Expressing confidence in the strong bilateral relations, Mr. Gilad mentioned plans to meet with the Foreign Minister-designate, Mr. Okudzeto Ablakwa, once he is confirmed by Parliament. He also urged the new government to adopt a 'more balanced' approach when voting on security matters in international forums, considering Israel's 'complicated geopolitical situation.' He emphasized the importance of maintaining friendly relations, stating, "The outgone government was friendly with Israel, and we do expect the new government to be as friendly as the last government, but we would like to see this friendship reflected in a better way in the international front."
Mr. Gilad called for Ghana's cooperation in the international pressure on Iran to end its 'ideological and political ambitions.' He stated, "Iran is an international problem, and I expect the new government in Ghana to be very strict with the Iran government.As a state that is a friend to Israel, we expect Ghana to be part of the international pressure trying to bring an end to its [Iran's] military, ideological and political ambition." He further explained that successful international pressure on Iran would eliminate the need for other means to curb their nuclear ambitions.
Touching on the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, Mr. Gilad expressed gratitude to former US President Joe Biden and conveyed optimism that President Donald Trump would be 'as supportive' as the previous US government. He remarked, "Mr Biden was a good friend of Israel since the beginning of his activities in the American political scene.we hope that the new [Donald Trump] administration would be as positive and supportive as the previous one and we have a good reason to believe it will be."
