General News of Sunday, 17 March 2013

Source: GNA

Ghana and Lebanon sign framework agreement at Flagstaff House

Ghana and Lebanon as part of President Michel Sleiman’s two-day visit to Ghana, on Saturday signed a framework agreement that would foster the ties of the two countries in many development areas .

The agreement, which was signed by Ms Hannah Tetteh, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration for Ghana and Adnan Mansour, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration for Lebanon, was witnessed by President John Dramani Mahama for Ghana and President Michel Sleiman for Lebanon.

Although the details of the agreement were not disclosed to Journalists, it is believed to be centered on trade, industry, commerce, banking, agriculture and tourism.

President Mahama gave the assurance that his administration would strategise and work around the clock to adhere to the tenets of the agreement to ensure its full and successful implementation for mutual benefits.

He said although Ghana and Lebanon had had relations through the peacekeeping exercises, they would now strengthen relations in the areas of trade and Commerce that would enhance the chances of creating jobs for the youth.

President Mahama said Ghana and Lebanon shared the same values of democracy, good governance and rule of law and the current agreement would further move the level of cooperation to greater heights.

President Sleiman commended the government of Ghana for her continuous contribution of military contingents to Lebanon peacekeeping exercise and gave the assurance the government of Lebanon would do everything possible to protect the interest of Ghana.

He called for frequent collaboration between the two countries through trade, frequent visits and commerce to cement their relations that had been built over the years.