Accra, April 8, GNA- The Minister of Information, Mrs. Zita Okaikoi on Wednesday commended the American government for its assistance to Ghana in ensuring the rule of law and democracy. She explained that the two countries had a long-term relationship that should be strengthened to enhance development.

The Information Minister said this when the American Ambassador, Mr Donald Teitelbaum called on her to introduce himself and congratulate her on the assumption of duty as the Minister for the Ministry. Mrs Okaikoi said government would give a new face to the Ministry and make it more proactive, citing the creation of a website where information about government's activities were placed. The introduction of the E-governance, she said was an area in which the Ministry was so much involved by providing the contents. "We will also turn the Ghanaian media around and give it an international standard to reach greater heights and will ask the US government for assistance when the need arises". She commended the former US President George Bush for voting 17 million dollars under his initiative to fight malaria in Africa. Mr Teitelbuam recounted US's relationship and said US would expect a long-term partnership.

He noted that President Barack Obama had pledged to provide financial assistance to developing countries including Ghana. The US Ambassador assured the Minister of US assistance in ensuring democracy and development.

"Action speaks louder than words and let people judge you by what you do and not what you say," he told the Information Minister. 8 April 09