Gyakye Quayson reaffirms Ghana’s preference for dialogue and diplomatic engagement with Sahelian countries

The Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister says Ghana remains committed to peaceful engagement with countries in the Sahel to encourage a return to constitutional and democratic governance while strengthening regional security cooperation.

Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs James Gyakye Quayson has reaffirmed Ghana’s preference for dialogue and diplomatic engagement with Sahelian countries as part of efforts to promote peace, stability and democratic governance in the sub-region.

He made the remarks during a meeting with the Foreign Policy Committee of the Danish Parliament, which paid a courtesy call on him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

Mr Quayson said Ghana remained committed to maintaining communication with countries in the Sahel, including through diplomatic missions and visits by government envoys, as part of efforts to encourage a peaceful return to constitutional and democratic rule.

His comments reflect Ghana’s continued engagement with countries facing political and security challenges, particularly Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, which have withdrawn from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Diplomacy remains central to regional cooperation

Ghana has continued to engage the three countries through diplomatic channels despite their departure from ECOWAS in January 2025.

The country appointed a special envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in 2025 to help maintain dialogue and explore areas of cooperation with the bloc.

In October, Ghana’s Special Envoy to the AES, Larry Gbevlo-Lartey, said the country was working to strengthen cooperation between the AES and ECOWAS, particularly in addressing regional security threats.

He said continued engagement could help identify common interests and strengthen collaboration among countries in West Africa.

Danish delegation discusses regional security

The meeting with the Danish parliamentary delegation also provided an opportunity to discuss Ghana-Denmark relations, European Union cooperation and developments in the Sahel.

Mr Quayson highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral partnerships in trade, investment, technology transfer and industrial development.

He also encouraged cooperation that would support Ghana’s economic transformation, including local manufacturing, value addition and job creation.

The Danish delegation, led by Foreign Policy Committee Chairperson Karsten Hønge, expressed interest in deepening relations with Ghana and discussed areas of mutual interest, including regional security and cooperation with the European Union.

Ghana seeks peaceful solutions to regional security challenges

Ghana’s diplomatic approach comes amid continuing concerns about terrorism, political instability and humanitarian needs across the Sahel.

The government has maintained that dialogue and cooperation with neighbouring countries are important to addressing threats that cross national borders.

President John Dramani Mahama has also called for sustained engagement with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, stressing the importance of regional cooperation in tackling insecurity and addressing the underlying causes of instability.

Mr Quayson’s remarks reaffirm Ghana’s stated commitment to diplomacy as a means of encouraging democratic governance, preserving regional relationships and advancing collective efforts towards peace and security in West Africa.