By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News Canada
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has defended Ghana’s proposed partnership with BRICS, insisting that the country’s foreign policy decisions will be guided by national interests rather than pressure from other nations.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Mr Ablakwa clarified that Ghana was pursuing partner status with BRICS, rather than full membership.
He linked the initiative to Ghana’s longstanding tradition of independent diplomacy, citing the influence of the country’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and his role in the Non-Aligned Movement, established in 1961.
“With all due respect, the foreign policy of Ghana will not be dictated by other countries,” Mr Ablakwa said, while reaffirming Ghana’s desire to maintain cordial relations with the United States.
The minister also referenced Article 40 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which outlines principles guiding the country’s international relations, including the promotion of national interests and cooperation with other nations.
He argued that Ghana’s historical involvement in the Non-Aligned Movement demonstrated the importance of maintaining an independent voice in global affairs. According to him, pursuing international partnerships that could benefit Ghana should not automatically be interpreted as hostility towards existing partners.
His comments follow criticism of Ghana’s proposed BRICS partnership, with concerns raised about its possible implications for relations with the United States.
Ghana Seeks to Balance International Partnerships
BRICS is an international grouping whose original members were Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The bloc has since expanded, while also developing a partner-country framework for nations seeking closer cooperation without becoming full members.
For Ghana, the proposed partnership raises questions about the potential economic and diplomatic benefits of closer engagement with the grouping, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure and development cooperation.
At the same time, Ghana maintains important economic and diplomatic relations with the United States and other Western partners. How the country manages these relationships could shape the practical implications of its engagement with BRICS.
Mr Ablakwa’s position is that Ghana should be able to explore opportunities with different international partners without being compelled to choose one side over another.
COMMENTARY: National Interest Must Guide Ghana’s BRICS Decision
Ghana’s proposed BRICS partnership presents an opportunity to examine how the country can diversify its international relationships while protecting its existing economic and diplomatic interests.
The central question is not simply whether Ghana should deepen its engagement with BRICS, but what concrete benefits the partnership could deliver to the country.
Potential benefits could include expanded trade opportunities, investment, development financing and cooperation in strategic sectors. However, policymakers must also consider possible diplomatic tensions, the practical terms of the partnership and whether the expected economic gains can be realised.
Ultimately, Ghana’s diplomatic independence should be reflected in transparent decision-making, clearly defined national objectives and a careful assessment of both opportunities and risks.
The government’s challenge will be to ensure that any move towards BRICS partner status advances Ghana’s development priorities while preserving constructive relations with its existing international partners.
