Ghana-UK relations on impressive upward trajectory
Story by: Regina Bless
On 21st October, 2026, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was hosted by the distinguished Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom, His Excellency Edward Miliband.
The Minister first congratulated his UK counterpart on his appointment and commended him for his inspiring leadership.
The meeting afforded them the opportunity to extensively review Ghana-UK excellent bilateral relations.
Trade and Investment.
On trade and investments, the two welcomed the impressive upward trajectory between Ghana and the United Kingdom in this area.
IELTS‑exemption negotiations – a breakthrough
Minister Ablakwa was delighted to report that his Ministry has made significant progress in the negotiations he initiated for Ghanaians to be exempted from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examinations for students and professionals.
According to the Minister, thus far, we have demonstrated that Ghana meets the minimum statistical threshold in English proficiency for favourable consideration by our UK friends. Both sides remain highly optimistic.
Prospects for honest broader dialogue on Reparatory Justice.
Both Ministers also had illuminating discussions on understanding President Mahama’s vision on reparatory justice, and expressed commitment to an honest broader dialogue on restitution, education and cultural remembrance following the landmark Ghana-led UN resolution declaring the transatlantic enslavement as the gravest crime against humanity.
Multilateral Coordination.
On the multilateral front, the two explored their shared priorities having regard for the fact that in 2027 Ghana will Chair the African Union as the UK assumes the G20 Presidency in the same year.
CHOGM (2026)- Antigua and Barbuda.
We additionally assessed preparations and common areas of focus and joint priorities for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be held in Antigua and Barbuda, in the first week of November, 2026.
Ghana’s appreciation for longstanding UK partnership re-affirmed.
Minister Ablakwa expressed deep gratitude for the distinguished UK Foreign Secretary’s warm hospitality, and for the constructive forward-looking discussion.
He re-affirmed Ghana’s longstanding appreciation for the UK partnership.
Both Ghana and the United Kingdom are poised to capitalize on their complementary strengths, setting the stage for an even more robust bilateral relationship in the coming years.
Long live Ghana-UK relations!