The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry organized an Interactive Session with H.E. Michael A.N. N. Oquaye Jnr., High Commissioner, High Commission of the Republic of Ghana on 15th May 2018 in the Chamber Premises.

The High Commissioner was accompanied by Mr. Aaron Nuamah Sintim, First Secretary, Consular & Welfare and Mr. Michael Harry Ansah, Special Aide of the High Commissioner of Ghana. Mr. Dwarika Prasad Tantia, Hony. Consul of Ghana in Kolkata was also present.

Mr. Indrajit Sen, President Designate, The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed the High Commissioner. Mr. Subhodip Ghosh, Director General, The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Mr. A Mandal, President - Business Development, Techno Electric and Engineering Company Limited were also present from the Chamber.

Mr. Dwarika Prasad Tantia shared his insights on Ghana’s Economy. He mentioned that Ghana was endowed with substantial mineral resources and had a well-established mining sector (diamond, gold bauxite, manganese, granite, marble, salt), which represented an important pillar of the Ghanaian economy. Mr. Tantia also said that Ghana was renowned for having world’s largest Diamond and Gold mining. Ghana was also known for its Hydrocarbon industry and Biomass, Petroleum and Gas sectors. Tourism sector in Ghana also played a significant role in strengthening Ghana’s economy. The other potential sectors in Ghana which were mentioned are: Agriculture and Agro Processing Business, Energy Sector, Food Processing, Health Sector, ICT, Infrastructure, Road and Transport Sector, Cotton Textile Sector, Textile and Garments sector. He also highlighted about the major Coco production in Ghana. He emphasized that jute export from West Bengal would have opportunities for packaging of Coco.

H.E. Michael A.N. N. Oquaye Jnr., High Commissioner, High Commission of the Republic of Ghana shared his objective of visiting Kolkata. He said that Ghana and India shared a rich history. Ghana was part of India’s Non-Aligned Movement after Independence. He also mentioned that there was commonality and complementarity between the two countries in the realm of culture, food habit, family values and many other aspects. He also highlighted all potential sectors in Ghana, especially Mineral and Mining Sector, Solar energy sector, Tourism sector, Infrastructure, Railways, Water Irrigation, and Housing. Ghana is one of the first few countries to ratify the International Solar Alliance. During the session, High Commissioner expressed his interest in extending business relationship with Bengal. He particularly mentioned about Health, Education, ICT. In this context, he shared that Ghana also attracted Medical Tourists. However, India is working on a much larger scale in Medical Tourism. Ghana would like to collaborate with India in this area. Students from Ghana study at the top ranking global institutes. They travel at different places in Europe and US to study. India may also attract students from Ghana offering attractive scholarships for deserving ones. He acknowledged the recognition of Indian technocrats.

High Commissioner emphasized on the importance of more interactions between the two countries. He advised that his High Commission would connect the Chamber with the Chambers of Commerce in Ghana. It is important to create awareness about the opportunities offered by both the countries. He highlighted that Ghana is one of the safest countries. Indian investors and businessmen are well regarded there. He mentioned that Ghana would also look forward to compassion for its citizens during business in India.