Outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, has congratulated President John Dramani Mahama on the achievements recorded within the first year of his return to office, particularly in stabilising and improving Ghana’s economic outlook.

Under President Mahama’s leadership, the Ghana cedi has shown sustained appreciation against major trading currencies, especially the US dollar, strengthening from about GHS17 to the dollar to roughly GHS11. There has been a significant reduction in fuel prices, which have fallen from around GHS16 per litre to about GHS10, despite the introduction of the GHS1 per litre (petrol, diesel and LPG) D-levy, as well as renewed investor confidence in the Ghanaian economy.

The outgoing envoy made the remarks when he paid a farewell call on President Mahama at the Jubilee House.

Ambassador Tong called for deeper cooperation between Ghana and China in key sectors including industry, trade, mining, and science and technology. He further disclosed that China’s zero-tariff arrangement for Ghanaian exports would soon be operationalised, a move expected to boost bilateral trade.

He also appealed to President Mahama to support China’s bid to host the Secretariat of the new United Nations treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction.

President Mahama, in response, praised Ambassador Tong for his role in strengthening the longstanding relationship between Ghana and China during his tenure.

“You haven't just been an ambassador or diplomat, you have been a friend, and I'm sad to see you go. Of course, our relations with China are excellent,” the President said.