President Nana Akufo-Addo arrives on local soil
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, June 11, 2019
A full military welcome greeted Ghanaian President, His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo upon his arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at approximately 00:44 hours today.
As His Excellency descended the aircraft, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) commenced a 21-Gun Salute and the Flag of the Republic of Ghana was unfurled.
As per protocol; he was first introduced to His Excellency, President David Granger. Following this, the Ghanaian leader was introduced to Chief-of -Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West and Commissioner of Police, Leslie James.
He then inspected the Guard of Honour before introducing members of his delegation to President Granger.
Also present to welcome the Ghanaian President were Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Ministers of Government and other state officials.
This historical visit of the sitting Ghanaian president to Guyana came after an invitation was extended by President Granger during a visit to Cuba earlier this year. However, it is not the first visit of a Ghanaian leader. In July 1984, Guyana welcomed a delegation from Ghana, which included Military leader and politician, Jerry John Rawlings.
Later today, the Ghanaian Head of State’s schedule include visits to the Non-Aligned and 1763 Monuments in Georgetown, signing of a bilateral agreement with Government, as well as meetings with the Opposition Leader, the African Diaspora and local African organisations.
Diplomatic relations between Guyana and Ghana were officially established on May 14, 1979. During the celebration of Ghana’s Independence in March 1957, Guyana’s political leaders, the late, Forbes Burnham and Dr. Cheddi Jagan travelled to the West African country to attend the festivities. Guyana’s own Independence Movement was greatly influenced by Pan-Africanist and first President of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Images: Keno George