Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has denied claims by former President John Mahama that President Akufo-Addo’s statements at the US-Africa Leaders Summit caused a strain in relations with Burkina Faso.

Mr. Mahama had criticized President Akufo-Addo for alleging that Burkina Faso had made an arrangement with Mali to employ Wagner forces, even suggesting that a mine was offered as payment. According to Mahama, these remarks led to “diplomatic tension” between Ghana and its northern neighbor.

In response, the Ministry issued a statement rejecting the former president’s claims as baseless, emphasizing that there has been no deterioration in relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso.

The Ministry highlighted ongoing collaboration between the two nations, including partnerships in power generation between Burkina Faso’s SONABEL Power Company and Ghana’s Electricity Company of Ghana, as well as efforts to enhance trade through the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, which has established a presence in Burkina Faso to facilitate the transport of goods from Tema Harbour.

The Ministry further reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening relationships with neighboring countries and stressed the importance of preventing the spread of misinformation that could harm international cooperation.

It underscored that Ghana’s interactions with Burkina Faso are based on mutual respect and cooperation, and that the government remains dedicated to fostering strong, positive ties in the region.