India lauded for supporting Ghana's internal security

India has been commended for its support in improving Ghana's internal security, with the West African nation saying this has been part of the two countries cooperation in international security.

"Ghana and India are cooperating in the area of international security. India has agreed to support Ghana in the field of security," Vice President Amissah-Arthur said when he received outgoing Indian High Commissioner Jeeva Sagar at the Flagstaff House here on Friday.

India's cooperation with Ghana in security and national defence dates back to the 1960s when military officers were sent to India for training. A number of police officers have also benefitted from training in India.

Trade between the two countries has also hiked over the past few years through the deepening of bilateral relations -- to $7 billion from $3 billion over the past two years.

Amissah-Arthur said that with the current expansion of relations between the two countries, "Ghana would continue to cherish its friendship with India," adding that prior to Ghana's independence, India provided tremendous support in various sectors, which led to the shared principles of non-alignment and non-interference in the affairs of other countries.

The vice president said the level of economic cooperation between the two countries had deepened during the Sagar's tour of duty and mentioned, in particular, Indian investments in agriculture and sugar production.

Sagar who has ended his three-year tenure, Indian investments in Ghana have already exceeded $1 billion and attributed this to the belief the two countries have in democracy and the rule of law.

He said geographical locations have not affected the cordial relations between the countries, adding that it was for this reason that India is prepared to support the Kofi Annan ICT Centre with a$1 million grant to enable it add to its current programmes.

He said India is prepared to assist Ghanaian exports with value addition for the country to reap maximum returns.

Sagar said the recent state visit by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee has given a further boost to deepen ties between the two countries, which has also improved partnerships between Ghanaian and Indian businesses.

(Francis Kokutse can be contacted at fkokutse@gmail.com)

--IANS

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