Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that the Ghanaian government has decided to formally apply for membership in BRICS, the intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The decision, announced during India’s External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar’s official visit to Ghana, is intended to diversify Ghana’s international partnerships, expand economic opportunities and strengthen cooperation with Global South countries.
Mr Ablakwa noted that India’s BRICS membership makes it a strategic partner in Ghana’s bid, and that the government has already sought India’s assistance with the application process. He said the Cabinet of President John Dramani Mahama has decided that Ghana will be joining BRICS, a move that could open new economic options and deepen South‑South engagement.
The minister also outlined plans for deeper cooperation between Ghana and India in areas such as railway development, pharmaceuticals, ICT, defence, agriculture and science and technology. Two Memoranda of Understanding covering agriculture and science and technology have already been signed as part of the comprehensive partnership.
Dr Jaishankar echoed the intent to strengthen collaboration in pharmaceuticals, health, mining, defence, railways and digital technology, and highlighted parallels between Ghana’s Accra Reset, Feed Ghana and One Million Coders initiatives and similar programmes in India.
Both leaders welcomed Ghana’s role in the African Union and ECOWAS and called for stronger cooperation at the United Nations, including on reforms to the UN Security Council.
Ghana’s formal application to join BRICS will be submitted shortly, with the government hopeful of India’s support and a broader international endorsement.
