Maryland's Deputy Governor visits Cape Coast and Elmina

Cape Coast, June 18, GNA - The Lieutenant-Governor of Maryland State of the United States, Michael Steele, on Thursday described Ghana as the 'heartbeat' of improved economy and better education in the 21 Century in Africa.

He said from a humble beginning, Ghana had achieved a lot, particularly in the economic sector and urged the government to build on the gains.

Lt Steele said this when he paid a courtesy call on Mr Joseph Aidoo, Western Regional Minister and acting Central Regional Minister at Cape Coast.

Lt Steele was elected chair of the Maryland State Republican Party in December 2000 to become the first African American to be elected to that position in the US.

He said it was his vision to create wealth and opportunities to link Ghanaians and Americans together to enable them exchange information and ideas that would help in the growth and development of the two countries.

Mr Aidoo commended Lt Steele for visiting the Central Region, which he said, was endowed in great tourist attractions. "A visit to Ghana will not be complete without a visit to the Central Region," he added. Later at a joint durbar organised by the chiefs and people of Cape Coast and Elmina traditional areas, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, Omanhene of Oguaa Traditional Area, appealed to Governor Steele to consider instituting an educational-cultural linkage for students from Maryland and that of Cape Coast/Elmina to serve as bond to cement the cordial relationship between the two countries.