The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu received the newly appointed Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Angel Lossada, and the crew of a Spanish Naval Ship ESPS Meteoro at the Naval Headquarters on Wednesday 30 October 2024.
The visit highlights the growing partnership between the Ghana Navy and the Spanish Navy, focusing on strengthening maritime cooperation and training for mutual benefit.
Ambassador Angel Lossada reaffirmed Spain's commitment to supporting Ghana's defense and security efforts, emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing common security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea. He noted that Ghana remains a top priority for maritime security due to its achievements in democracy and regional stability.
The Ambassador underscored the importance of peace before, during and after the 2024 general elections, acknowledging that elections can be complex and hectic. He called for the need for all stakeholders to prioritise peace and civic responsibility.
The CNS on behalf of the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, expressed gratitude for Spain's support and cooperation, highlighting the successful joint exercises and training programs conducted between the two countries. He praised the Spanish Navy's initiative to bring their vessel to Ghana and called for more capacity-building programs for naval personnel and stakeholders in the maritime security domain.
Rear Admiral Yakubu expressed solidarity with the Spanish Ambassador and people of Spain affected by the recent flash floods. “The Ghana Navy stands in solidarity with Spain during this difficult time, and our thoughts are with the families and communities impacted by the flash floods”, he stated.
The Commanding Officer, ESPS Meteoro, Lt Cdr Inigo Franco on his part, thanked the CNS for the warm reception and stated that their presence in Ghana offers an opportunity for enhanced cooperation in fighting maritime threats and understanding challenges to provide support.
Present at the meeting were the Chief Staff Officer (CSO) at the Naval Headquarters, Commodore Bright Emmanuel Kojo Atiayao and the Deputy CSO in charge of Operations and Training, Commodore Nyam.
