Story By: Dennis Ato Keelson
Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a significant strengthening of bilateral relations with the United States (US) following a comprehensive assessment meeting in Accra.
The minister, who hosted the talks, stated both nations “agreed on priority areas for cooperation in 2026” and reviewed the “significant progress” made in 2025.
A key outcome was the continued exemption for Ghana from certain U.S. visa sanctions. “We welcomed our successful negotiations which exempted Ghana from President Trump’s visa sanctions,” Mr. Ablakwa posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Ghana will continue to be exempted from visa sanctions and $15,000 visa bonds imposed on other countries.”
Substantial trade progress was acknowledged. The meeting noted “the removal of President Trump’s 15% tariff on a wide range” of Ghanaian agricultural products. Furthermore, Ablakwa relayed “another great news” from the U.S. side: the House of Representatives’ overwhelming vote to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by three years. “This positive development will boost local garment production and create more jobs,” he said.
On security, both countries “applauded our improved security and law enforcement cooperation,” citing the extradition of nine suspects from Ghana to the U.S. in 2025. For the upcoming FIFA World Cup, special measures will “expedite visa applications” to address current delays.
Looking ahead, the Minister confirmed that “in 2026 Ghana will negotiate a bespoke trade agreement with the United States.” He concluded by affirming both nations “are impressed with the incredible positive velocity of our Ghana-US bilateral relations.” The U.S. team was led by Acting Ambassador Rolf Olson.
