Ghana and Togo Urged to Strengthen Cooperation Against Insurgency as Ambassadors Deepen Bilateral Ties in Washington

Edited by: Solomon Kwabena Nana-Ansah – Paaps – 

Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has hosted Togo’s Ambassador to the United States, Frédéric Edem Hegbe, for a high-level discussion aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, regional integration, trade, energy cooperation, transportation, and cross-border development.

The meeting, held in Washington, focused on deepening collaboration between Ghana and Togo amid growing regional security concerns, particularly the threat of insurgency in West Africa.

During the discussions, Ambassador Smith underscored the need for stronger regional partnerships to drive industrial growth and economic transformation across the sub-region.

He emphasized that reliable and sustainable energy remains critical to accelerating industrial development.
Ambassador Hegbe highlighted Togo’s expanding industrial and export sectors, with particular emphasis on the country’s phosphate industry, which continues to serve as a major source of foreign exchange earnings.

“Our phosphate is one of the best after Morocco,” Ambassador Hegbe stated, noting that Togo exports phosphate to international markets including Europe, Japan, and Israel for fertilizer and sulfuric acid production.
The two diplomats also discussed ongoing cooperation on border management and regional security. Ambassador Hegbe commended the successful operation of joint border posts between Ghana and Togo, particularly at Akanu and Noepe, describing them as practical examples of effective regional collaboration in combating insurgency and enhancing cross-border security.

The ambassadors further praised the growth of ASKY Airlines and its increasing role in connecting West Africa to the United States and other international destinations.

According to Ambassador Hegbe, ASKY Airlines currently operates direct flights between Lomé and Washington twice weekly, significantly improving travel convenience for West Africans, including Ghanaians.

Ambassador Smith welcomed the development, stating that the expanded air connectivity would greatly benefit Ghanaian students, professionals, and members of the diaspora traveling between West Africa and the United States.