President John Dramani Mahama has extended Ghana’s congratulations and goodwill to the Government and people of the United States of America on the country’s 250th Independence Anniversary.

The United States gained independence from Great Britain when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, July 5, the President said the milestone offers an opportunity to celebrate the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Ghana and the United States.

The ministry noted that the two countries have maintained cordial relations since Ghana attained independence in 1957.

The statement highlighted decades of collaboration between the two countries in areas including trade, investment, infrastructure, education and democratic governance.

It also recalled that the United States was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Ghana following independence.

“As we join in the celebration of another milestone, it is my deep conviction that the enduring friendship and cooperation between our two countries will continue to be shaped by values and common interests, especially in the areas of the rule of law, human rights and democracy, as well as our shared aspiration for economic prosperity, which fosters a close and enduring partnership between Ghana and the United States,” President Mahama said in his message to US President Donald J. Trump.

The ministry recounted key milestones in the bilateral relationship, including the construction of the Akosombo Dam, the establishment of the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO), projects under the Millennium Challenge Compact, the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), as well as growing cooperation in the social sector, trade and investment.

It also noted the long history of high-level exchanges between the two countries, citing visits to Ghana by former US Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as official visits to the US by successive Ghanaian Presidents.

President Mahama further commended the strong people-to-people relations between Ghanaians and Americans, saying they continue to promote mutual understanding and strengthen educational and cultural exchanges.

“President Mahama concluded his special message by wishing the government and people of the United States of America a peaceful, joyous and successful 250th anniversary celebration,” the statement noted.