Expert on China-Ghana Security Deal: This Support Should Be Fully Embraced

Copyright ahotoronline

International Relations Expert Dr. Vladimir Antwi Danso has expressed a positive stance on China’s recent pledge to support Ghana in its fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, as well as the rising challenge of cybercrime. He stressed that this offer is valuable and emphasized that the involvement of Chinese citizens in galamsey activities, if any, should be critically addressed without politicizing the issue. Dr. Danso urged that Ghana should seize this opportunity without hesitation, recognizing that China's experience and strategy could substantially aid Ghana in tackling these persistent problems. He also highlighted the security cooperation aspect, suggesting that China’s approach might bring innovative solutions to combating cybercrime in Ghana’s digital systems. The pledge comes as part of a new agreement between Ghana and China to deepen cooperation in law enforcement. This commitment includes collaborative efforts to tackle illegal mining, cyber fraud, terrorism, and other cross-border criminal activities threatening national security. Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak announced this significant development after leading a high-level delegation to Beijing for bilateral talks with China's Ministry of Public Security on September 22, 2025. The discussions marked a shift from the traditional focus of Ghana-China relations on trade and infrastructure towards strategic collaboration in policing and security. During the talks, emphasis was placed on adopting advanced technology and strengthening institutional partnerships to combat modern security threats effectively. Key areas covered included improving communication among law enforcement agencies, building institutional capacity, and providing specialized training for Ghana’s police and national security personnel. The Interior Ministry’s statement underlined China’s support in enhancing practical skills and capabilities within Ghana's security framework, which is expected to bolster the country’s responsiveness to emerging challenges. China’s Vice Minister of Public Security, Mr. Ling Zhifeng, reaffirmed Beijing’s readiness to intensify collaboration, highlighting that both countries would work closely through INTERPOL to address cross-border crime more efficiently. The talks also covered China’s bid for the position of Vice President of INTERPOL, with Beijing seeking Ghana’s endorsement for this candidature. This dimension of international cooperation signifies a broader shared interest in maintaining security and combating crime on a global scale. Minister Muntaka pointed out that this security cooperation agreement will have direct positive impacts on addressing the environmental and social devastation caused by illegal mining in Ghana. It will also enhance the safety of Chinese nationals living and working in the country. The Interior Minister described the outcomes as a landmark advancement in Ghana–China relations, underlining the mutual recognition by both countries that security is a shared global responsibility in an increasingly interconnected world. The partnership promises lasting benefits for Ghana’s security landscape and international law enforcement collaboration. Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku