TT, Ghana sign agreements

In addition to the government- to-government agreement, a memorandum of understanding on joint identification and development of commercially viable natural gas projects was also signed by Thomas Manu, Ag CEO of Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) and Gerry Brooks, National Gas Company (NGC) chairman.

Mahama subsequently hosted Rowley and the TT delegation to a State luncheon. Following the luncheon the delegation was accompanied by Mahama and other high-ranking officials on a tour of the Tema Oil Refinery and the Volta Aluminum Company Ltd (Valco). Both leaders addressed the management and workers at the refinery and Valco.

Coming out of today’s meetings and activities, Rowley and Mahama acknowledged their interest in further exploring opportunities for mutually beneficial collaborative efforts with a view to economic development in both countries.

The final activity for the day was a cocktail reception for the business community at the M?venpick Ambassador Hotel. A post on Rowley’s Facebook page said the Prime Minister and his delegation arrived in Ghana on Sunday from London. Also in Ghana are members of a private sector delegation who will be joining Rowley’s delegation for three days of meetings and activities with a view to exploring and strengthening mutually beneficial economic ties. Included in the business delegation are Brooks and Energy Chamber CEO Dr Thackwray Driver. When he left the country on May 1 on his 12-day overseas trip, the Prime Minister indicated Government will be seeking to develop an arrangement which is mutually beneficial to TT and Ghana.

Rowley said the Ghanians have been impressed with this country’s model of development. Prior to the May 24, 2010, general election, the then Patrick Manning administration was pursuing an energy initiative with Ghana. That initiative was not continued under the former People’s Partnership administration.