The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has held a series of high-level engagements with diplomatic missions and development partners as part of efforts to strengthen international cooperation and mobilise partnerships in support of Ghana’s environmental, science and technology priorities.
The engagements brought together representatives from Norway, the United Kingdom, Palestine, Russia, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with discussions focusing on areas of mutual interest and opportunities for collaboration with the Ministry.
Diplomatic Courtesy Calls & Bilateral Discussions
Norwegian Ambassador
The Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Dr. John Mikal Kvistad, paid a courtesy call on the Minister, accompanied by his delegation. Their discussions focused on ocean development, biodiversity, marine sustainability, and the need for strengthened action to address plastic pollution. The engagement also touched on cooperation under the Ocean for Development Programme and the shared interest in promoting the sustainable use and protection of Ghana’s marine resources.
British High Commissioner
During a courtesy call by the British High Commissioner, H.E. Christian Rogg, discussions centred on key environmental and sustainability concerns, including waste management, illegal mining, and the transition towards electric mobility. The engagement highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation and exploring practical approaches to addressing environmental challenges while supporting Ghana’s broader sustainable development objectives.
Palestinian Delegation
The Minister also received a delegation from Palestine, which congratulated her on her appointment and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Ghana. Discussions explored areas where the two sides could deepen collaboration and exchange knowledge and expertise in fields relevant to the mandate of the Ministry.
Russian Ambassador
In a separate engagement with the Ambassador of the Russian Federation, discussions focused on science, technology, research, and innovation. The meeting provided an opportunity to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation, particularly in leveraging scientific knowledge, research capabilities, and technological advancement to support national development.
UNDP Team
The Minister further engaged a team from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which presented an overview of its areas of work and identified opportunities for collaboration with the Ministry. The discussions emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in supporting policy implementation, institutional development, and sustainable development initiatives.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
The series of engagements underscores the Ministry’s commitment to building strong international partnerships as it advances Ghana’s environmental protection, scientific development, and technological innovation agenda.
Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings reiterated the importance of partnerships, knowledge exchange, and technical cooperation in addressing complex national and global challenges. She noted that collaboration with diplomatic missions, development partners, and international institutions remains critical to translating policy priorities into practical and sustainable outcomes for the country.
The engagements form part of the Minister’s broader efforts to familiarise herself with key stakeholders and strengthen partnerships that can contribute to the Ministry’s mandate and Ghana’s sustainable development aspirations.
