Ghana and Mexico deepen sports diplomacy to strengthen bilateral relations

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In a move to deepen bilateral relations through sports diplomacy, Her Excellency Norma Ang, Ambassador of Mexico to Ghana, and Fernando Alvarado Valenzuela, Deputy Head of Mission, paid a courtesy call on Hon. Kofi Adams, Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to fostering collaboration in various sporting disciplines and youth exchanges, paving the way for stronger cultural and athletic ties between the two nations.

During the visit, Ambassador Norma Ang highlighted Mexico’s keen interest in expanding cooperation in boxing, baseball, women’s football, and athletics. She emphasised Mexico’s readiness to facilitate youth exchange games and collaborative training programs, as well as signing a memorandum of understanding to formalise their partnership in these areas. Notably, Mexico expressed willingness to host the Ghanaian baseball team, signalling a mutual interest in growing lesser-known sports within each country.

A key point was on how Ghana could take advantage of the sports university in Mexico, which Ambassador Norma Ang believes could benefit Ghana’s sports training, education and development initiatives. She also announced Mexico’s ongoing promotion plan aimed at showcasing the shared interests and cultural ties between Ghana and Mexico, with sports diplomacy playing a central role.

Hon. Kofi Adams responded warmly to the initiative, acknowledging the high level of diplomatic engagement and the importance of sports as a unifying force.

“Sports have always captured the heart of Ghanaians and have been a source of pride and unity,” he stated.

“We appreciate Mexico’s interest in sports development, and I am impressed by their commitment to fostering cooperation,” he added.

The Hon Minister congratulated Mexico on its successful bid to co-host the FIFA World Cup for the third time, emphasizing the country’s leadership in global football. The Ministry of Sports and Recreation expressed openness to further engagement at all levels, including grassroots development initiatives, which are seen as vital for nurturing future talent.

According to the Sports and Recreation Sector Minister, Ghana has plans to establish a free zone sports development space to attract investment that will create wealth within the sports sector. The country also raised concerns about the need for advanced coaching training and professional development, appealing for Mexico’s support in this area.

In a gesture of solidarity, Ghana will offer its sports facilities for use by Mexican teams should the need arise, reinforcing the spirit of mutual support. Both parties agreed to continue fostering this budding partnership, with hopes of creating a vibrant exchange of athletes, expertise, and cultural understanding.

Hon. Adams concluded by expressing optimism that the relationship between Ghana and Mexico would grow stronger, with plans to incorporate the vibrant Mexican atmosphere into Ghana’s sports, further cementing their shared passion for sports as a bridge of friendship and cooperation.

This development marks a promising chapter in Ghana-Mexico relations, emphasising the role of sports as a powerful tool for diplomacy and development.

In attendance were, Norma Ang Sanchez – Mexico Ambassador to Ghana, Fernando Alvarado Valenzuela – Deputy Head of Mission – Embassy of Mexico in Ghana, Mark Addo – GFA, Vice President, Enerst Danso-Ghana Baseball Association, Bernard Quartey-GBF and Mr. Richard Kofi Akpokavie – GOC- President.

Others were Mr. William Kartey, Mrs. Wilhelmina Asamoah, Tanko Bagara, Jennifer Buabeng, Wonder Mandel and Solomon Kusi Tetteh, all from the Ministry.