Former Deputy Foreign Minister Advises New Minister on Diplomatic Approach
Hon. Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Member of Parliament for Mampong and former Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, has offered a series of important pieces of advice to the newly-appointed Foreign Minister, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
In an open letter, Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong welcomed Hon. Ablakwa to his new role and shared his insights on how to navigate the complex world of international diplomacy.
Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong, acknowledging the cordial relationship he had with the new minister during their time in Parliament, noted that there have been concerns regarding Hon. Ablakwa’s combative approach and outspoken demeanor. While he agreed with these concerns, he expressed confidence that with the right guidance, Hon. Ablakwa could become an effective diplomat for Ghana.
Key Advice for Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa:
Shift from Political Combativeness to Diplomacy:
The former Deputy Minister stressed that diplomacy operates in a different sphere from the politically charged environment of Parliament. As Foreign Minister, Hon. Ablakwa will need to work cooperatively with various stakeholders, including diplomats, government officials, and international partners. Diplomacy, he emphasized, requires tact, restraint, and consensus-building, rather than confrontation and opposition.
Adopt a Diplomatic and Respectful Approach:
Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong urged Hon. Ablakwa to become a friend to all stakeholders in his role, rather than an adversary to any. As Foreign Minister, he now represents all Ghanaians, not just a political party, and must focus on building cooperation rather than engaging in partisan politics.
Embrace the Complexities of Global Diplomacy:
The former deputy minister highlighted the increasing complexity of international diplomacy, urging Hon. Ablakwa to prioritize Ghana’s national interests and maintain confidentiality in his dealings. He advised the new minister to surround himself with a non-partisan group of foreign policy advisors to provide honest and constructive counsel.
Choose Words Carefully on the Global Stage:
Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong cautioned Hon. Ablakwa to be mindful of his language, both locally and internationally. A single misstep in public statements can escalate into a diplomatic crisis. He advised restraint, especially during informal conversations with foreign diplomats.
Maintain Professionalism and Integrity:
Upholding high standards of integrity and professionalism, he noted, is essential for earning respect in the international community. Populist rhetoric and political manoeuvring, common in local politics, have no place in the world of diplomacy.
Protect Ghana’s Sovereignty and Reputation:
The former Foreign Minister further emphasized that Ghana’s diplomatic reputation must be preserved, warning against airing internal political grievances on the international stage. He urged Hon. Ablakwa to focus on strengthening Ghana’s sovereignty and international stature.
Continue Building on Previous Successes:
Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong encouraged the new Foreign Minister to acknowledge the achievements made under the leadership of his predecessor, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchway. These included significant infrastructure improvements for Ghana’s missions abroad and the country’s growing prominence in global affairs, such as hosting the headquarters of the African Continental Free Trade Area and securing membership on the UN Security Council.
Prioritize National Interests Over Partisan Politics:
The former deputy minister concluded by emphasizing that Ghana’s national interests should always take precedence. He called on Hon. Ablakwa to adopt a patriotic approach in his role, putting the country’s welfare above all else.
In closing, Hon. Ampratwum-Sarpong expressed his hope that Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa would follow the example set by Ghana’s notable diplomats, including Kofi Annan and Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, and bring honour to the country during his tenure. He wished the new Foreign Minister every success in his role, offering his support in ensuring that Ghana’s foreign policy remains focused and effective.
“May God continue to bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong,” he concluded.
Hon. Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong
MP-Mampong
Immediate Past Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs
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