The President is back

Accra, March 22, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor was met with a hero's welcome when he arrived this afternoon at the Kotoka International Airport after a three day state visit to the United Kingdom.

The thousands of people, who gathered at the arrival point, greeted the President with miniature Ghanaian flags amidst drumming and dancing. Nana Akuffo Addo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and NEPAD who briefed the press at the airport said upon the invitation of Queen Elizabeth 11, the President first visited the UK where he held bilateral talks with Tony Bair, British Prime Minister.

During the talks, the UK Premier announced a 10-year development plan, which would enable UK increase the quality of its development support to the country.

He said from UK the President went to Portugal following an invitation by President Anibal Vacacosila and held discussions with the leadership of that country.

The Portuguese President said he was looking forward for a long lasting relationship between the two countries.

Nana Akuffo Addo noted that the President from Portugal headed for Algeria where he attended the NEPAD Summit.

President Kufuor proposed the establishment of a NEPAD Fund which, when instituted, would be used as counterpart fund of leverage sourcing to speed up development in Africa.

Among the dignitaries who met the President were Vice President Alhaji Aliu Mahama, Ministers of State, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Inspector General of Police, Patrick K. Acheampong, Chief of Staff as well as traditional leaders.