Deputy Presidential SpokespersonShamima Muslim has called for a strategicrecalibration of economic diplomacy to strengthen economic growth, resilience and shared prosperity. Speaking at a high-level diplomatic networking event in Accra, she stressed that diplomacy must evolve to actively facilitateinvestment, market access, technology transfer and equitable partnerships, particularly as global economic vulnerabilities deepen.

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Global Economic Vulnerability Demands a New Diplomatic Approach

Ms Muslim noted that traditional distinctions between developed and developing countries were fading as nations worldwide confront rising debt, inflation and political instability.

She emphasised that:

• Economic vulnerability is now global

• No country has a monopoly on stability or crisis management

• Collective solutions are essential in today’s interconnected world

According to her, this reality makes it imperative for diplomacy to play a stronger economic and governance role.

Diplomacy Must Serve Economic Growth and Governance

Highlighting the evolving role of diplomacy, Ms Muslim said modern diplomatic engagement must:

• Facilitate strategic investments

• Open markets for value-added products

• Encourage technology transfer

• Build partnerships that are fair, transparent and mutually beneficial

She stressed that diplomacy must go beyond political engagement to directly support economic transformation.

Quotes and Official Remarks

Addressing diplomats and industry leaders, Ms Muslim stated:

“The distinctions that once defined developed and developing countries are increasingly blurred; vulnerability is now universal.”

She added:

“Diplomacy today must increasingly serve as economics and governance, facilitating strategic investment, opening markets and building partnerships that are mutually beneficial.”

Economic Diplomacy and Africa’s Industrialisation Agenda

The event, organised by Diplomatic Affairs Media and Communications Ltd, was held under the theme:

“Economic diplomacy and Africa’s industrialisation agenda: Building Africa’s integrated future.”

The gathering brought together:

• Diplomatic envoys

• Industry leaders

• Business executives

• Development partners

Activities included product exhibitions, strategic networking sessions and the launch of a new magazine focused on diplomatic relations.

Value Addition, AfCFTA and Regional Integration

Ms Muslim strongly advocated for:

• Value addition to Africa’s raw materials

• Integration into regional and global value chains

She praised the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a major opportunity for Africa to accelerate industrialisation and economic integration.

She further noted that under President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana remains committed to economic diplomacy that promotes internal growth while safeguarding natural resources.

Forts, Castles and Reparations Diplomacy

The Special Envoy for Reparations, Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, highlighted the importance of Ghana’s forts and castles in preserving history and strengthening international relations.

He disclosed plans for the Museums and Monuments Board to collaborate with diplomats to restore historical monuments, stating that even modest investments could deliver significant cultural and educational benefits.

Women in Diplomacy and Upcoming Initiatives

The Founder and CEO of Diplomatic Affairs Media and Communications Ltd announced:

• A free Christmas Day food festival as part of community outreach

• A planned International Women’s Day conference to promote women in leadership and diplomacy

• The upcoming second edition of the Diplomatic Honours in Abuja, recognising excellence in diplomacy

FAQs: Economic Diplomacy and Africa’s Growth

What is economic diplomacy?
It is the use of diplomatic tools to promote trade, investment, technology transfer and economic cooperation.

Why is economic diplomacy important now?
Global economic instability requires coordinated efforts to build resilience and shared prosperity.

How does AfCFTA support industrialisation?
AfCFTA expands market access, supports value chains and boosts intra-African trade.