The Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS), H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray,
President of the ECOWAS Commission has paid a courtesy call on President John
Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House in Accra. The discussions centered on
critical issues affecting the region, including the withdrawal of Burkina Faso,
Niger, and Mali from ECOWAS, preparations for the organization’s 50th
anniversary, and the upcoming Special Summit on the future of the region.
One of the key
topics of discussion was the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali
from ECOWAS, a development that has raised concerns about regional integration
and stability. The three countries, collectively known as the Alliance of Sahel
States (AES), have cited dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s handling of regional
security and governance issues as a primary reason for their exit.
President
Touray reaffirmed ECOWAS’s commitment to supporting member states in
strengthening governance, economic integration, and security. He emphasized the
importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing the concerns of the AES
countries and fostering regional peace and stability. “ECOWAS remains
committed to its founding principles of solidarity, cooperation, and
development. We will continue to engage with all member states to ensure the
region remains united and prosperous,” said President Touray.
President
Mahama echoed these sentiments, reiterating Ghana’s full support for ECOWAS and
its efforts to promote regional integration. He encouraged the continuation of
dialogue with the AES countries, emphasizing that peace and stability in the
Sahel are essential for the overall security and development of West Africa. “Ghana
stands firmly with ECOWAS and believes that dialogue is the key to resolving
differences and building a stronger, more united region,” President Mahama
stated.
The meeting
also highlighted preparations for the celebration of ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary,
a milestone that reflects the organization’s enduring commitment to regional
integration and development. Since its establishment in 1975, ECOWAS has played
a pivotal role in promoting economic cooperation, peace, and stability in West
Africa.
President
Touray commended Ghana for its support of ECOWAS and its contributions to the
organization’s success over the past five decades. He expressed optimism about
the future, noting that the 50th anniversary celebrations would serve as an
opportunity to reflect on past achievements and chart a course for the future.
The Ghanaian president
also assured Ghana’s support for the anniversary celebrations and emphasized
the need to use the occasion to reposition ECOWAS in light of current global
challenges. “As we celebrate 50 years of ECOWAS, we must also look ahead and
adapt to the changing realities of our world. This is an opportunity to
strengthen our collective resolve and ensure that ECOWAS remains a beacon of
hope and progress for our region,” he said.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
