The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has issued a statement on November 9 demanding that the Ghanaian government conduct its upcoming negotiations for partner‑country status in the BRICS bloc with full transparency. The IEA said the government must articulate its goals, keep the process open and ensure any commitments fit within Ghana’s constitutional framework and long‑term development priorities.
The call follows Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s October 6 announcement that the Cabinet had approved Ghana’s application for BRICS partner status. While the Institute welcomes the initiative, it stresses the need for institutional and policy mechanisms that will allow Ghana to reap maximum developmental benefits.
According to the IEA, Ghana should evaluate its engagement with BRICS on its potential to strengthen economic resilience, create decent jobs and improve citizens’ welfare. The organisation highlighted opportunities in trade, investment, industrialisation, technology transfer and development financing, noting that deeper ties could diversify export markets and attract investment into productive sectors.
However, the IEA emphasised that the partnership should complement rather than replace existing international relationships. Cooperation with the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the IMF, the World Bank and African regional institutions remains vital to Ghana’s economic and development agenda.
The Institute further urged the government to pursue the partnership in a way that preserves Ghana’s independence in determining national policies and strategic priorities. It described the decision to seek BRICS partner status as a sovereign choice, stressing that Ghana has the right to shape its international partnerships in line with its national interests.
Ultimately, the IEA said the success of the proposed partnership would be measured by its contribution to national development, economic resilience and the well‑being of the Ghanaian people. The institute calls on the government to keep the process transparent and aligned with Ghana’s long‑term interests.
