President Kufuor calls for joint commission

President John Agyekum Kufuor called for the reactivation of the Permanent Joint Commission between Ghana and Niger stalled since 1986.

This he said would enhance bilateral relations and sub-regional integration with Ghana's Sahelian neighbours.

President Kufuor who was speaking during a State House meeting with the Nigerien Ambassador, Mr Abdoul Karimu Seini tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant Ministries to speed up efforts to re-establish the commission.

He expressed appreciation for the interest Niger entrepreneurs have shown in Ghana especially in the area of maritime trade.

" I am also happy that Niger has found it necessary to turn its consulate into an Embassy. In due course Ghana will reciprocate."

President Kufuor commended his Nigerien counterpart, President Tanja Mamadou for sympathising with Ghana during the recent Stadium and flood disasters.

Mr Seini described Ghana as a gateway to the West Africa sub-region hence the interest of his country to enhance trade relations.

In a related development Mr Dieudonne Maurice Bonanet, a special envoy of Burkinabe President, Blaise Campaore on Friday delivered a special message to President Kufuor.

Mr Bonanet told reporters that the message centred on bilateral relations especially the strengthening of economic, trade and political ties.

He said the two countries have common geographical and historical links that should be promoted for the mutual benefit of their citizens