Ghana’s BRICS membership bid has moved forward after the country’s Cabinet approved a decision to formally seek entry into the grouping. The announcement came during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Accra, with India signalling support for Ghana’s aspirations.
Ghanaian Foreign Minister Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa said the country would now begin the formal application process and seek support from existing BRICS members. Jaishankar said India had been “very sympathetic and supportive” of Ghana’s aspirations, while stressing that the membership question would ultimately require collective consideration by BRICS countries.
Ghana seeks wider global partnerships
Ablakwa said Ghana’s interest in BRICS is aimed at diversifying its international partnerships rather than abandoning traditional relationships with institutions such as the IMF and World Bank.
He said Ghana wants “new friends” as it works to transform its economy, create jobs, industrialise and strengthen what he described as resource sovereignty. The minister also highlighted Ghana’s growing economic ties with countries including India, Brazil and China.
According to Ablakwa, Ghana’s trade with India has more than doubled from around $3 billion in 2024, with Accra aiming to increase it to approximately $7 billion.
He said BRICS could provide Ghana with additional economic and diplomatic options and fit with President John Dramani Mahama’s foreign policy vision of a more multipolar world.
India and Ghana expand cooperation
Jaishankar’s visit also focused on strengthening the India-Ghana Comprehensive Partnership. The two countries discussed expanding cooperation in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, mining, defence, railways and digital sectors.
Agreements covering agricultural research and training and biodiversity were also highlighted during the visit.
Jaishankar said Indian companies were already active in Ghana and pointed to recent investment commitments in areas including pharmaceuticals and medical services, poultry and renewable energy.
The two sides also discussed cooperation as Global South partners, including support for reform of the United Nations and the UN Security Council.
Jaishankar said the global system was moving towards greater multipolarity and diversity, creating space for countries such as India and Ghana to strengthen their voices and pursue strategic autonomy.
Ghana’s formal application now begins a process that will require consideration and approval from existing BRICS members. India’s expressed support gives Accra an important diplomatic backing as it seeks to expand its international partnerships.
Relevant official source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
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