The President of the National Assembly of the Ivory Coast, Mr. Adama Bictogo, paid a courtesy visit to Ghana’s Parliament House in Accra on Wednesday, where he met with Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.
The visit by President Adama Bictogo to Ghana’s Parliament House is a reciprocal gesture following Speaker Bagbin’s earlier visit to the Ivory Coast, and is intended to foster closer ties and deepen the bilateral relationship between the two neighboring West African countries.
Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin emphasized the strong bond between Ghana and the Ivory Coast, stating that “our friendship is deep and dependable”, as he welcomed President Adama Bictogo on his reciprocal visit to Ghana’s Parliament House.
Speaker Bagbin praised President Bictogo for his exceptional leadership, noting that he is not only a skilled politician but also a visionary who creates wealth and opportunities that benefit the people, thereby making a positive impact on their lives.
He called on West African countries to transcend artificial borders and language barriers, emphasizing that they share a common identity and heritage, and are ultimately “one people” united by their shared history and culture.
In response to an invitation from President Bictogo, Speaker Bagbin announced plans to lead a high-level delegation to the Ivory Coast in October 2024. He also extended an invitation for President Bictogo and his team to address Ghana’s Parliament in early January 2025, following the country’s general election on December 7.
This visit would coincide with the transition from the Eighth Parliament to the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, marking a new legislative era. Members of the House will accompany him on the reciprocal visit to the Ivory Coast, fostering continued cooperation and friendship between the two nations.
President Adama Bictogo emphasized the importance of establishing a joint platform for parliamentarians from Ghana and the Ivory Coast to exchange ideas and best practices.
He also stressed the need to boost intra-African trade and economic cooperation.
Additionally, he extended his best wishes to Ghana for a peaceful and harmonious general election in December, urging citizens to maintain unity and solidarity throughout the process.
Story by: Michael Seh
