Ghana, EU Sign Landmark Security and Defence Partnership

Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has welcomed Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, on her official visit to Ghana.

The visit marks a significant step in strengthening the long-standing relationship between Ghana and the European Union, culminating in the signing of a historic Ghana–European Union Security and Defence Partnership.

With this agreement, Ghana becomes the first African nation to enter into such a strategic arrangement with the EU, joining other global partners including the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Norway.

Speaking during the engagement, the Vice President commended the EU for its continued support through key initiatives such as the European Peace Facility and the EU Security and Defence Initiative. These programmes have funded over 30 projects across critical sectors, including conflict prevention, counterterrorism, border management, maritime security, and cybersecurity.

A major highlight of the visit was the handover of essential security equipment to Ghana’s security agencies. The items included Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) vehicles, counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems, motorcycles, and drones. These are expected to significantly boost the operational capacity and readiness of the country’s security services.

Addressing recent security concerns within the sub-region, particularly the reported killing of Ghanaian traders in Burkina Faso, the Vice President stressed the urgent need for stronger international cooperation to ensure peace and stability.

She emphasized that peace remains the bedrock of sustainable development and collective security, calling for continued collaboration between Ghana and its global partners to address emerging threats.

The visit by Kaja Kallas underscores the growing importance of Ghana as a strategic partner in regional and international security efforts.