Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered a powerful closing statement at Ukraine’s peace summit in Switzerland, highlighting the detrimental impact of Russia’s invasion on food security in poorer nations.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that Africa has been particularly affected by the consequences of this invasion, extending beyond the confines of Europe.
In his remarks, President Akufo-Addo called for the involvement of both Russia and China in the peace talks, recognizing that their participation is crucial for achieving a definitive settlement.
Ghana firmly opposes great power hegemony and the bullying of smaller states by larger powers, viewing Russia’s invasion and acts of aggression through this lens.
The joint communique of the Switzerland peace summit, signed by 80 countries and four European institutions on June 16, signifies a united front against aggression and a commitment to peace.
While over 100 countries and organizations were present at the summit, notable absentees from the signatories include India, Armenia, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Indonesia, Bahrain, Colombia, South Africa, Thailand, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates.
China did not send representatives to the summit, but Ukrainian President Zelensky urged China to join in the development of peace proposals.
President Zelensky expressed optimism that China could contribute positively to the peace process, emphasizing that Ukraine does not view China as an enemy, but rather considers Putin’s Russia as the sole adversary.
Throughout the full-scale invasion, Russia has relied heavily on sales of oil and other hydrocarbons to China and India for funding its state budget and war efforts.
This economic dependency underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region and the need for a peaceful resolution to restore stability and security.
