Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with Ghanaian President John Dramani from the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 30, 2026) Vladimir Putin: The relations between our countries rest on foundations laid during the emergence of Ghana as a sovereign and independent country and its struggle against the legacy of colonialism. We were among the first to establish diplomatic relations with Accra - our ties began in 1958. We helped build industrial facilities and social infrastructure and trained national professionals. Today, in a rapidly changing world, we strive to preserve and build on this shared heritage. We note with satisfaction the increase in contacts at the various levels. There is a mechanism for political consultations, and an inter-parliamentary and inter-party dialogue is developing. Ghana ranks 12th among African countries in terms of trade with Russia. However, it is one of our largest trading partners in sub-Saharan Africa. Bilateral trade grew by 6% in January-August, so the overall trend is positive. We will, of course, continue to support Ghana in education and help train national professionals. Currently, 649 young people from Ghana are studying in Russia. I understand that during your visit you were awarded an honorary doctorate from a Russian university. We are interested in strengthening coordination with Ghana in an international forum. We appreciate your longstanding support for Russian resolutions at the UN. We also welcome Accra's independent stance under your leadership, Mr. President, in the fight against neo-colonialism and the fulfillment of its foreign policy more broadly. Ghana.

Opening remarks of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a meeting with Ghanaian President John Dramani from the sidelines of the Third Russia. Africa Summit (Moscow, October 30, 2026) Vladimir Putin: The relations between our countries rest on foundations laid during the emergence of Ghana as a sovereign and independent country and its struggle against the legacy of colonialism. We were among the first to establish diplomatic relations with Accra - our ties began in 1958. We helped build industrial facilities and social infrastructure and trained national professionals. Today, in a rapidly changing world, we strive to preserve and build on this shared heritage. We note with satisfaction the increase in contacts at the various levels. There is a mechanism for political consultations, and an inter-parliamentary and inter-party dialogue is developing. Ghana ranks 12th among African countries in terms of trade with Russia. However, it is one of our largest trading partners in sub-Saharan Africa. Bilateral trade grew by 6% in January-August, so the overall trend is positive. We will, of course, continue to support Ghana in education and help train national professionals. Currently, 649 young people from Ghana are studying in Russia. I understand that during your visit you were awarded an honorary doctorate from a Russian university. We are interested in strengthening coordination with Ghana in an international forum. We appreciate your longstanding support for Russian resolutions at the UN. We also welcome Accra's independent stance under your leadership, Mr. President, in the fight against neo-colonialism and the fulfillment of its foreign policy more broadly. Ghana.