Ghana and South Korea have agreed to deepen cooperation in key sectors, including artificial intelligence, manufacturing, energy, and education, as both countries prepare to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations next year.

The discussions were highlighted at the 2026 Korea–Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, co-chaired by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyan.

Ablakwa said the partnership reflects a shared ambition to promote industrialisation, job creation, and value addition, particularly across Africa’s emerging economies.

He noted that Africa’s current leadership is focused on ensuring that international partnerships deliver greater economic returns and opportunities for the continent’s youthful population.

South Korea, he said, is positioning its cooperation with Africa as a platform to share its experience as a global leader in technology and manufacturing.

Ghana and South Korea already collaborate in sectors including energy, agriculture, maritime, education, health, road construction, and shipbuilding.

Ongoing and planned initiatives include the establishment of a new university in Ghana, the development of a Hyundai automotive manufacturing plant targeting the West African market, and the rollout of solar-powered irrigation systems.

Both countries have also agreed to expand cooperation in artificial intelligence, energy transition, and critical minerals as part of efforts to strengthen economic and technological ties.

Ablakwa said discussions are ongoing on a visa waiver arrangement covering all passport categories, adding that agreements for diplomatic and service passport holders have already been concluded.

He also commended South Korea for supporting a Ghana-led United Nations resolution that declared the transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity.

The minister said both countries look forward to marking 50 years of diplomatic relations next year with deeper strategic cooperation.