Italy Pledges Ongoing Security Partnership with Ghana – Ambassador

Laura Ranalli, Italy’s top diplomat in Ghana, has reiterated her nation’s intention to maintain a strong alliance with Ghana on matters of security, with a shared ambition to ensure lasting peace and safety across the Gulf of Guinea.

She emphasized that this alliance would be reinforced through collaborations at bilateral, multilateral, and broader European levels, all aimed at advancing regional stability.

Ranalli made these remarks during a ceremonial toast at an event hosted at her official residence in Accra last Friday, May 30, 2025, commemorating Italy’s National Day.

The reception drew a wide array of guests, including members of the Italian community in Ghana, government officials, local chiefs, and representatives from the diplomatic missions.

Ranalli highlighted the deep and varied relationship between the two nations, and noted that to build further on this, Italy had recently incorporated Ghana into the “Mattei Plan”—a comprehensive strategy intended to foster equitable partnerships with African countries.

The plan supports various development sectors in Ghana, including an agribusiness venture known as the “Strengthening Agri-Food Ecosystems” project in the Volta Region, which is carried out with collaboration from private sector stakeholders. Additionally, a healthcare programme is underway to upgrade hospital facilities and increase access to essential medical services.

“The framework also includes the Digital Flagship Initiative, which aims at designing bankable, multi-year initiatives focused on digital connectivity and public infrastructure, and several initiatives on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with Ghanaian institutions, universities, and non-governmental organisations,” said Ambassador Ranalli.

Returning to the issue of security, she revealed that the Italian naval vessel Bettica, which is currently conducting surveillance operations in the Gulf of Guinea, is expected to dock at the Tema Port around mid-June.

Discussing the broader scope of Italy–Ghana relations, she mentioned that the value of trade between the two countries had hit €800 million in 2023 and stood at €700 million for 2024.

She also reflected on Italy’s early contribution to Ghana’s post-independence development and its continued involvement in major infrastructure and energy projects.

“Notable examples include the construction of the Akosombo Dam and the establishment of the Tema Oil Refinery by Italian companies. The tradition of cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and construction continues to this day, with Italian firms also playing a key role in agriculture,” she said.

Ranalli further highlighted that many Italian families had made Ghana their home over the past 100 years, bringing vital input to the local economy. Likewise, she acknowledged the significant role played by Ghanaian nationals in Italy, especially in cultural and entrepreneurial spheres.

Representing the Ghanaian government at the event, Emilia Arthur, Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, offered praise for the Ambassador’s leadership.

She remarked that since Ranalli began her service in Ghana in December 2024, her efforts to fortify the Ghana–Italy partnership had been impactful.

“We have already witnessed significant engagements in our relations; your commitment is making a difference, and we are eager to collaborate further to deepen the warm and long-standing ties,” she said.

The Minister also lauded Italy’s commitment to international development through its involvement in EU-led efforts in Ghana, describing these contributions as clear evidence of its dedication to multilateral diplomacy.

Among the guests was Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli.