Foreign Affairs Minister Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has revealed that he held high-level talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an official visit to Ukraine, with discussions centred on securing the release of two Ghanaian citizens currently being held as prisoners of war.
In a statement shared on his official Facebook page, Hon. Ablakwa described the meeting as both cordial and productive, expressing optimism about ongoing negotiations.
“I was graciously hosted by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine earlier today. We held fruitful discussions focused on Ghana’s appeal on humanitarian grounds for the release of two of our citizens being held as prisoners of war in Ukraine,” he stated.
According to the Minister, Ghana’s appeal is rooted in humanitarian considerations, with the government keen on ensuring the safety and protection of its nationals caught up in the ongoing conflict.
Beyond the immediate issue of the detained citizens, the bilateral talks also addressed broader concerns, particularly the activities of trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable African youth. Hon. Ablakwa noted that both countries explored ways to tackle these criminal operations.
“Our bilateral talks explored how our two countries can effectively combat the threat posed by trafficking networks that lure vulnerable, unsuspecting youth from Africa only to end up risking their lives in the ongoing war,” he said.
The Minister expressed confidence in the diplomatic engagement, adding, “I am optimistic that we shall be successful in our negotiations.”
Hon. Ablakwa further conveyed appreciation from President John Mahama and the Government of Ghana to President Zelenskyy for ensuring that the rights of the detained Ghanaians are being upheld in line with international law.
“I have conveyed the gratitude of President Mahama and the Government of Ghana to President Zelenskyy for ensuring that the rights of our citizens being held are protected as required under international law,” he noted.
The visit also opened discussions on strengthening Ghana-Ukraine relations. The two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in key areas, including agriculture, defence, education, and trade.
In a significant diplomatic gesture, President Zelenskyy extended a formal invitation to President Mahama to visit Kyiv, as Ukraine seeks to elevate its diplomatic ties with Accra.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to its citizens, Hon. Ablakwa concluded with a strong message: “Every Ghanaian life matters to the Mahama Administration.”
