Mrs. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has reiterated Ghana’s commitment to protocol of free movement of goods and services within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub region.
Botchwey noted the commitment to protocol, will create the much needed employment opportunities to the teeming youth of the sub region who are faced with severe unemployment challenges.
The ECOWAS Treaty and its relevant protocols envisions free movement of persons, goods, services and capital towards the achievement of regional, economic and political integration.
The Foreign Minister said the Continental Free Trade Area agreement when effected, will also address the constraints and enhance the participation of Africa in global trade as a viable partner.
She made this known at the Ghana-Nigeria Trade Investment Conference on Thursday, May 10 in Accra.
Botchwey said the private sector, if thoroughly prioritized will spearhead socioeconomic transformation in the ECOWAS sub-region.
“Our Government will continue to champion the cause of private sector as an engine for growth in an enabling business environment which is critical for private business competitiveness and sustainable development,” she added.
She noted that through the peaceful co-existence between Ghana and Nigeria, the Continental Free Trade Area agreement will accelerate an all-inclusive economic growth for both countries.
With both countries in pole position to have one of the biggest economies in the sub region, she expressed trade investment between them were not notable, adding that authorities work industriously to bridge the gap.
To improve the business environment to facilitate the Continental Free Trade Area agreement, Botchwey said government will continue to implement policies directed at offering support for businesses to thrive locally and internationally.
The Foreign Minister was optimistic about the boost of economic growth across the continent through the Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
