Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango has held talks with the outgoing Ambassador of the Republic of Ghana to Tanzania, Mr. Damptey Bediako Asare, at the State House in Dar es Salaam, where he underscored the importance of deepening economic cooperation between the two nations.
Speaking at State House in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Mpango said Tanzania and Ghana have long benefited from a shared history of solidarity dating back to the independence struggles of both nations, fostered by the friendship between the late founding fathers, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere of Tanzania and Dr. Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana.
He acknowledged Ghana’s critical role in supporting the liberation of Southern African countries, noting that the partnership had since evolved into stronger cooperation in economic development.
“We must continue to strengthen our relations in investment and trade, especially by making full use of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” Dr. Mpango said.
He further pointed out that there was great potential for deeper collaboration in sectors such as mining, agriculture, tourism, ICT, education and social services.
The Vice President also invited Ghanaian investors to take advantage of Tanzania’s abundant opportunities, highlighting ongoing reforms to improve the business environment.
Dr. Mpango commended Ghana for its participation in the 2024 Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair, which he said had further cemented economic cooperation between the two countries and set a good example for other African nations to prioritize intra-African trade.
On a somber note, he extended condolences to the Government and people of Ghana following a recent plane crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including the country’s Defense and Environment Ministers.
“Tanzania stands with Ghana during this difficult period, and we pray for the departed to rest in eternal peace,” he said.
For his part, Ambassador Asare, who is concluding his tour of duty, thanked the Government of Tanzania for the support accorded to him throughout his tenure.
He conveyed greetings from Ghana’s President, John Mahama, to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Tanzanian government, praising the country for its partnership and solidarity with Ghana in various international forums.
Ambassador Asare noted that the vision of Nyerere and Nkrumah in promoting unity and peace across Africa remained relevant today, adding that the future of bilateral ties should place more emphasis on expanding economic cooperation for the mutual benefit of both nations.
