Ghana, Serbia agree to enhance labour mobility and scholarship opportunities

Ghana and Serbia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral relations, with a focus on labour mobility, educational exchange, and defence cooperation.

As part of a renewed partnership, Ghana is exploring the opportunity to deploy segments of its youthful workforce to Serbia to support the European country’s ageing population. The two nations have agreed to establish a framework for an effective work permit system that will enable Ghanaian work seekers to legally access jobs in Serbia. This initiative aims to bridge Serbia’s labour gap while Ghana benefits from increased foreign remittances and job creation.

Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, commended the government of Serbia for its longstanding support and expressed optimism about the growing collaboration. He made these remarks during an official working visit by the Serbian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Marko Ðuri?.

In a bid to strengthen educational and diplomatic exchanges, both countries have agreed to increase the number of government-sponsored scholarships available to their citizens. This will allow over 30 Ghanaians to study in Serbian universities and vice versa, fostering mutual understanding and professional development.

On security and maritime matters, Serbia has pledged support for Ghana’s efforts to upgrade and overhaul the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS). The enhanced infrastructure, operated by the Ghana Maritime Authority, will improve Ghana’s over-the-horizon surveillance capabilities and maritime safety.

The two countries are collaborating to reinforce Ghana’s northern frontiers as a buffer against the growing threat of terrorism and violent extremism spilling over from the Sahel region.

Despite a strong diplomatic relationship that dates back to the days of the Non-Aligned Movement, trade volumes between Ghana and Serbia remain low. Both foreign ministers acknowledged the need to explore trade opportunities and private sector partnerships to boost economic cooperation.

During his visit, Ðuri? is also scheduled to meet with Ghana’s Minister of Food and Agriculture, Youth and Sports, and Tourism, Arts and Culture. These meetings aim to identify potential areas for cooperation in agribusiness, sports development, and cultural exchange.

Serbia and Ghana first established diplomatic relations in 1959, and their ties were historically strengthened through the legacy of President Kwame Nkrumah and President Josip Broz Tito under Non-Aligned Movement. This visit marks a renewed effort to revitalize that historic bond through practical cooperation in key areas of development.

By Fred Duhoe

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