The European Union Ambassador to Ghana, Rune Skinnebach, says Ghana’s current economic stability is being supported by high global gold prices and prudent economic reforms, but cautioned that sustaining the gains will require continued political commitment and fiscal discipline.
Speaking to journalists in Kumasi after delivering a keynote address at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) on scholarship opportunities for Ghanaian students in European Union universities, Ambassador Skinnebach described Ghana as one of the most stable democracies in the region.
“I think the economy, peace, security, and democracy in Ghana are all very successful,” he stated. “However, the real challenge is ensuring that the economic stability is sustainable.”
According to the Ambassador, Ghana’s recent economic improvements are partly tied to favorable global gold prices and successful policy reforms implemented by authorities.
“We know the current gains are largely supported by very high gold prices, but also by successful reforms. The question is whether there will be enough willingness to maintain these reforms as we approach elections,” he noted.
Mr. Skinnebach stressed the need for Ghana to preserve political stability and democratic governance, particularly during election periods.
He said the European Union remains committed to supporting Ghana’s efforts to maintain peace and stability amid growing security concerns in parts of the West African sub-region.
“We do everything we can to assist Ghana in its endeavors to remain peaceful and stable,” he said.
The Ambassador praised Ghana’s democratic record, noting that citizens continue to enjoy strong democratic freedoms. However, he challenged Ghanaians to strengthen accountability systems and civic engagement beyond election cycles.
“Democratic rights enjoyed by Ghanaians score very highly, but the ability to consistently hold those in power accountable may still be questionable,” he stated.
He further emphasized the importance of social cohesion and strengthening the social contract between citizens and leaders.
“This is where I see room for improvement, or at least a challenge that needs to be addressed,” he added.
Touching on Ghana-European Union relations, Ambassador Skinnebach described the current period as a favorable time for investment and cooperation between both parties.
“Now is a very good time to be in Ghana. We already have over a billion euros in Global Gateway investments in the country. We have peace and stability,” he said.
According to him, recent high-level engagements between Ghana and the European Union have further strengthened bilateral ties.
He disclosed that new partnerships have recently been signed in areas including forestry, civil legislation, peace, security, and defense cooperation.
The Ambassador also announced that a new Ghana-European Union partnership dialogue is scheduled for June as both parties continue to deepen cooperation in development, governance, and investment.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
