South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo have hailed the recent visa waiver pact between their nations, citing a notable surge in air travel and trade activity.
The agreement, effective November 1, 2023, permits citizens of both countries to visit for up to 90 days without needing a visa.
At the Bi-National Committee meeting in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa lauded the visa waiver’s positive influence on bilateral ties.
He highlighted its role in boosting tourism, fostering business connections, facilitating educational and scientific collaborations, and strengthening interpersonal relationships.
“We welcome you to the second session of the Bi-National Commission between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana, we welcome you with warm hearts. One of the recent highlights in our bilateral relations was the signing of the reciprocal visa exemption for ordinary passport holders for a period of 90 days per annum, which entered into force on November 1, 2023.
The surge in travellers between our nations has not only benefited tourism but has also strengthened our business connections, educational collaborations, and interpersonal relationships,” President Akufo-Addo echoed President Ramaphosa’s sentiments, underscoring the deepening of Ghana’s ties with South Africa due to the visa waiver.
He emphasised the importance of the partnership and its potential for both countries and their citizens. The Bi-National Committee meeting, attended by representatives from both nations, aims to enhance cooperation and mutual respect between Ghana and South Africa.
“I come with warm greetings from the people and government of Ghana to you, your Excellency, Matamela, Cyril Ramaphosa, and the good people of the Republic of South Africa. As we gather at this Binational Commission meeting, I’m reminded of the profound significance of our partnership and the boundless potential it holds for our two nations and peoples.
“Our current deliberations mark yet another chapter in our shared commitment towards nurturing a relationship built on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Under the bi-national committee arrangements, the two countries have also eliminated the visa barriers through the visa waiver agreement, which came into effect on November 1, 2023, to encourage people to engage with the two countries for business as well as tourism. And like you, Mr. President, I’m impressed by the increase in the number of exchanges that are taking place between our two countries.”