Ghana, Jamaica agree on teacher and nurse exchange after high-level talks

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has shared details of a high-level meeting with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Michael Holness, describing it as warm, productive, and focused on deepening cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking on social media after the engagement, Ablakwa said Prime Minister Holness expressed deep appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana for their support following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

“Prime Minister Holness conveyed heartfelt gratitude to President Mahama and Ghana for the generous assistance and true solidarity in the aftermath of the Hurricane Melissa devastation,” Ablakwa said.

He added that the Jamaican leader made Ghana’s support unforgettable.

“The Prime Minister says Jamaica will never forget the kindness of Ghana,” he stated.

According to the Foreign Minister, discussions also focused on practical cooperation, including human resource exchange and security collaboration.

“We discussed other important matters including committing to send Ghanaian teachers and nurses to Jamaica this year under a special labour exchange agreement,” Ablakwa said.

He also revealed plans for stronger security ties between both countries.

“We have also agreed to initiate a Ghana-Jamaica Defence Cooperation Agreement,” he noted.

The talks further covered economic cooperation, especially in infrastructure and business opportunities.

“We further explored business opportunities for Ghanaian companies as Jamaica intends to embark on a massive infrastructural revamp as part of the Prime Minister’s bold vision for building back better,” Ablakwa said.

On global diplomacy, he disclosed Jamaica’s support for Ghana’s position on reparations and historical justice.

“Prime Minister Holness has pledged to offer full support for President Mahama’s UN resolution seeking to declare the transatlantic slave trade the greatest crime against humanity and to demand reparations,” he said.

Ablakwa concluded by appreciating the Jamaican leader’s hospitality and hinted at a future visit to Ghana.

“I thank the inspirational Prime Minister for his exceptional hospitality as Ghana looks forward to hosting him soon, considering his strong desire to visit the motherland,” he added.