U.S. Senator Jim Risch issued a stern warning to Ghana, expressing frustration over the country’s growing financial obligations to China while allegedly neglecting debts owed to American companies and taxpayers. The remarks came during a diplomatic engagement with Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, at the U.S. State Department, where discussions also involved Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison M. Hooker and Ambassador Troy Damian Fitrell.
“We cannot keep subsidizing Ghana while it continues paying far larger debts to China,” Senator Risch declared, highlighting concerns about Ghana’s repayment priorities. The senator’s comments reflect broader tensions regarding Ghana’s economic relationships, particularly its significant debt commitments to China, which some U.S. officials view as taking precedence over obligations to American stakeholders.
The meeting also touched on issues of visa overstays by Ghanaian students in the U.S., with American authorities noting that 21% of Ghanaian students fail to return home after their studies, exceeding the U.S. tolerance threshold of 15%. Ablakwa acknowledged these concerns but remained optimistic about resolving the issue through ongoing diplomatic efforts. “They have formally communicated to us that 21% is the default rate,” he stated, emphasizing that Ghana has not been flagged for more severe issues such as terrorism or refusal to accept deportees, which are part of the U.S.’s 12-point criteria for visa compliance.
Senator Risch urged Ablakwa to prioritize Ghana’s commitments to U.S. companies and taxpayers, suggesting that the foreign minister’s visit to Washington, D.C., should focus on addressing these financial obligations rather than other diplomatic engagements. The senator’s remarks underscore a growing scrutiny of Ghana’s economic policies amid its balancing act between international partnerships with the U.S. and China.
Ablakwa, however, expressed confidence in strengthening U.S.-Ghana relations, noting that constructive dialogue could lead to favorable outcomes for both nations. The discussions come at a time when Ghana faces increasing pressure to manage its international debt and maintain robust diplomatic ties with global powers.
As Ghana navigates its economic challenges, the U.S.’s concerns highlight the complexities of international aid, debt repayment, and diplomatic relations in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
