China Strengthens Ties: Unveils Advanced Visa Application Centre in Accra
China took a significant step in bolstering trade and economic ties with Ghana by unveiling a state-of-the-art Visa Application Centre in Accra. This move aims to facilitate seamless visa services and promote multifaceted exchanges between the two nations.
Efficient Visa Services for Varied Needs
The newly established Centre will provide efficient and top-tier visa services for Ghanaians, catering to needs such as business and trade, education, and tourism. Additionally, it is expected to foster robust people-to-people interactions, enriching the cultural and economic landscapes of both countries.
Deepening Bilateral Relations
Highlighting an evolving chapter in the bilateral trade relationship between China and Ghana, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Lu Kun, emphasized the deepening of mutual trust and collaboration. This progress has been catalyzed by the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Rising China-Ghana Trade Volume
China, as the world’s second-largest economy, holds a prominent position as Ghana’s largest trading partner and foreign investment source. The trade volume between the two countries reached $10.27 billion in 2022, a notable upswing from the $9.57 billion recorded in 2021.
Strategic Timing and Optimism for Future Opportunities
Ambassador Kun noted that the Center’s inauguration was well-timed, coinciding with China’s adjustment and optimization of COVID-19 policies in early 2023. This adjustment led to a surge in visa applications for trade and business purposes. He expressed optimism that the Centre’s launch would stimulate heightened interest among Ghanaian citizens to explore opportunities in China.
Ghana Acknowledges Significance
Mrs. Mavis Nkansah Boadu, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, hailed the Centre’s establishment. She described this as a significant milestone in the robust bilateral relations between Ghana and China. The move reflects the strengthening ties between the two countries across various domains such as trade, investment, infrastructure development, culture, and education.
Facilitating Increased Tourism and Collaboration
Mrs. Boadu affirmed that the Centre’s presence was crucial. This will facilitate increased tourism, business ventures, academic collaborations, and cultural exchange between the nations. The Centre will streamline visa application processes, enhancing efficiency and convenience for travelers.
Upgraded Visa Application System and Commitment to Hassle-Free Processes
The Deputy Minister disclosed Ghana’s intention to introduce an upgraded visa application system. This system will feature enhanced security, including a machine-readable visa hardware system, aimed at facilitating smoother entry into the country. Ms. Xu Yeping, Deputy General Manager of the Visa Department at CTG Travel Services Corporation Limited, expressed her commitment to ensuring that the visa acquisition process becomes a hassle-free experience for all applicants.
Realizing Shared Vision of Collaboration
The Centre’s establishment marks a substantial stride towards realizing China and Ghana’s shared vision. This will aid in closer collaboration, trade expansion, and people-to-people engagement. This strategic move reflects both nations’ commitment to fostering stronger economic and cultural ties for mutual benefit.
