Accra, Ghana - Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Ghana on Wednesday and held meetings with President Nana Akufo-Addo and Ghanaian counterpart Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey in Accra. The primary focus of these meetings was to strengthen Israel's position within the African Union. The visit took place a day after Cohen inaugurated the first Israel-Ghana business forum, which saw the participation of companies in areas like water, agriculture, and project development.

Cohen's office stated that the visit aimed to deepen cooperation between the two nations, particularly in international Israeli aid activities and in areas such as border security, water management, and health. Strengthening ties between Israel and African countries is expected to enhance Israel's international standing, boost its economy, and address challenges faced by the continent.

President Akufo-Addo reassured Israel of Ghana's friendship and pledged support for Israel's observer status in the African Union. He welcomed the presence of Israeli companies in Ghana and expressed a desire for further cooperation for the benefit of both nations.

The two-day official visit underscored the robust bilateral relations between Israel and Ghana, as noted by Foreign Minister Botchwey. This visit is expected to further deepen the ties between the two countries.

In addition to the Ghanaian visit, earlier in the month, Cohen also met with a senior official from an African Muslim country that lacked diplomatic ties with Israel. This meeting reflects Israel's efforts to expand the Abraham Accords and counter Iranian influence in Africa. The Foreign Ministry confirmed ongoing normalization contacts with several African countries, including Niger, Mali, and Mauritania.

Cohen's visit to Ghana included attendance at the African Union's Mid-Year Coordination Meeting during his 10-hour visit to Nairobi, Kenya, at the invitation of Kenya's president, William Ruto, and foreign minister, Alfred Mutua.