Hon Laadi Ayii Ayamba
Pusiga

Mr Speaker, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a Statement on the long-standing and cordial relationship between the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Cuba.

Mr Speaker, the friendship between our two nations is rooted in a shared history of solidarity, mutual respect and a common commitment to social justice, development and international cooperation. The establishment of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Cuba has been since 1959, and the two have maintained strong partnership that has stood the test of time. The relationship was inspired by the vision and leadership of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and Cuba’s Leader, Fidel Castro, that has remained one of the most enduring examples of South-South cooperation.

Mr Speaker, there are notable similarities in our governance system, especially in dealing with corruption, economic hardship, social inequality, the perceived failure of leadership to address the needs of ordinary citizens, accountability, national dignity and the empowerment of the masses. Both countries reflect the aspirations of ordinary people for a more equitable and just society and continue to influence the political history and national consciousness of their respective countries.

Mr Speaker, one of the most significant pillars of the Ghana-Cuba relations has been cooperation in the health sector. Over the years, Cuban medical professionals have contributed immensely to healthcare delivery in Ghana, particularly in underserved and rural communities. At the same time, many Ghanaian students have benefited from scholarships and professional training opportunities in Cuba, returning home with skills and expertise that continue to strengthen our national developmental efforts. This can be traced, as most of our excellent doctors are serving at various health facilities and have even established their own private health facilities.

Mr Speaker, the relationship between Ghana and Cuba extends beyond healthcare. Our two countries have collaborated in exchange of developmental programmes such as education, agriculture, science, culture, sports and human resource development. These exchanges have deepened the bonds between our people and demonstrated the value of international partnership built on mutual benefit rather than narrow interest.

Mr Speaker, at this time when the global community is confronted with challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, public health emergencies, and economic uncertainty, it is important that Ghana and Cuba continue to strengthen their cooperation. There remains enormous potential for collaboration in biotechnology, pharmaceutical production, agricultural innovation, renewable energy, and technical education that will continue to enhance the growth of our two countries and beyond.

Mr Speaker, as representatives of the people, we must continue to support initiatives that enhance diplomatic engagement and promote economic and cultural exchanges between our countries. It was in this perspective that the late former President, Flt Lt Jerry John Rawlings, continued with the legacy of our first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. A stronger Ghana-Cuba partnership will not only benefit our respective nations but will also contribute to broader efforts towards sustainable development and international solidarity.

Mr Speaker, I wish to acknowledge and commend the government and people of Cuba for their friendship and support to Ghana over the years. I also commend successive governments of Ghana for preserving and strengthening this important bilateral relation. It is therefore my sincere hope that the ties between our two nations will continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.

Mr Speaker, on behalf of the members of the Ghana-Cuba Friendship Association of Parliament and Ghana at large, I reaffirm our commitment to the values of our friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect that have defined Ghana-Cuba relations for more than six decades. I thank you, Mr Speaker.