Speaker Bagbin Calls for Strategic Use of Parliamentary Friendship Associations to Boost Global Diplomacy

Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on the newly inaugurated Management Committee of the Parliamentary Friendship Association to leverage their platform to deepen international diplomacy, promote peace, and foster global cooperation.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Parliament House in Accra on Tuesday, the Speaker stressed the need for the Association to go beyond ceremonial roles and pursue tangible outcomes that advance Ghana’s diplomatic, economic, and cultural interests.

“This inauguration must mark a new chapter in our international parliamentary relations. The Committee must not exist in name only—it must act, deliver, and make a meaningful impact,” Mr. Bagbin said.

He encouraged the Committee to develop comprehensive guidelines to guide its engagements and to prioritize innovation, transparency, and strategic partnerships.

Mr. Bagbin also urged the Association to sign Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with sister associations worldwide in key areas such as trade, technology, education, culture, and sustainable development.

Highlighting inclusivity, the Speaker stressed the importance of involving independent and female legislators in the Association’s activities to ensure diverse representation and effective diplomacy that reflects Ghana’s democratic values.

Chairman of the Management Committee and MP for Cape Coast South, Hon. Kweku George Ricketts-Hagan, pledged the Committee’s commitment to its oversight role and assured that it would work diligently to fulfil its mandate.

“We will ensure that this important structure functions effectively to achieve the objectives of the Association,” he stated.

Mr. Maher Kheir, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, expressed readiness to collaborate with Ghana’s Parliamentary Friendship Association in strengthening cooperation and integration among global parliamentary networks.

Majority Leader and MP for Bawku Central, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, emphasized that such associations offer parliamentarians critical opportunities to network, resolve international legislative challenges, and even contest for leadership roles on the global stage.

Representing the Minority Leader, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, MP for Weija-Gbawe, added that in the face of complex global issues, it is crucial to use parliamentary friendship associations to build bridges and enhance diplomatic dialogue among lawmakers worldwide.

Mr Camillo Pwamang, Deputy Clerk in charge of Legislation and Management Services, assured the Committee of Parliament support to all activities of the committee to enrich the ir legislative duties.

The event marks a significant step in positioning Parliament as a key player in Ghana’s international relations and soft diplomacy agenda.