Accra: A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed between the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and the Belt and Road Environmental Technology Exchange and Transfer Centre (Shenzhen), China, aiming to enhance investment opportunities between the two regions.
According to Ghana News Agency, the MOU establishes a strategic framework for cooperation between VRCC and the Chinese partners from Shenzhen, focusing on promoting sustainable investment and green technology transfer. The agreement also aims to facilitate trade and market access for businesses in both regions, support joint projects that stimulate inclusive economic growth, and advance the Green Belt and Road Initiative in Ghana through environmentally responsible development.
A delegation consisting of thirteen government representatives from China, along with Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise agents, participated in the signing ceremony. Mr. Hao Mingtu, Director of the Belt and Road Environmental Technology Exchange and Transfer Center (Shenzhen), and Mr. James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, formalized the agreement.
Mr. Gunu emphasized that this partnership is a significant step towards positioning the Volta Region as a hub for sustainable investment, innovation, and international collaboration. He highlighted the VRCC's commitment to creating a conducive business environment and job opportunities for the youth in the region, while seeking partners to add value to its untapped resources. He described the region as peaceful, which he believes is crucial for guaranteeing the safety of investors and investments.
Madam Zhang Yali, Party Member and Deputy Director of the Shenzhen Ecological Environment Bureau, led the delegation and expressed optimism about elevating the agreement to the next level. She outlined Shenzhen's economic goals, projecting a 5.5% GDP growth by 2025, and noted its leadership in advanced manufacturing and hi-tech product value. Labeling Shenzhen as a global technology hub, she emphasized its role in reshaping the future as a digital pioneer, home to world-class tech companies like Huawei.
Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, Volta Representative to the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), highlighted the MOU as a deliberate initiative by NDPC under the Volta Economic Embassy and Forum to attract real investment. He emphasized the region's untapped potential in natural resources, fertile lands, and strategic geographical advantage, urging that Volta seize this opportunity for development.
To further consolidate the agreement, a second MOU was signed between the Ghana Chapter of GuangDong, Hong Kong, Macao Greater Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and the Belt and Road Environmental Technology Exchange and Transfer Centre (Shenzhen). This collaboration aims to drive and sustain investor traffic from China into the Volta region.
