President Mahama Begins State Visit to Belarus: 4 Bilateral Deals, Agro-Processing Talks in Focus
President John Dramani Mahama has touched down in Minsk for a 5-day state visit to the Republic of Belarus, marking a major step in strengthening Ghana’s ties with Eastern Europe.
According to a statement from Presidency Communications dated 31 May 2026 and signed by Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the visit began Friday, June 5, 2026, at the invitation of Belarusian President Aleksandr Grigorievich Lukashenko.
Strengthening diplomatic and economic ties
The visit is aimed at deepening diplomatic relations between Accra and Minsk while opening new frontiers in economic, agricultural, and technical cooperation. Upon arrival in Minsk, President Mahama laid a wreath at the Victory Monument to honor Soviet Army soldiers and Belarusian partisans who fought in World War II. The gesture underscores Ghana’s respect for shared historical sacrifices.
A high-level meeting between President Mahama and President Lukashenko is the central highlight. The two leaders will hold private bilateral talks before leading an expanded diplomatic session with ministers and senior officials from both countries. Discussions will focus on strategic partnerships in Agriculture, Education, and Commerce.
Agro-processing and industrialisation agenda
In line with President Mahama’s push for industrialisation and food security, the Ghanaian leader will travel to Brest, one of Belarus’ most historic western cities. There, he will tour one of the region’s largest processors of milk, cheese, and baby products. The tour is expected to facilitate knowledge sharing and potential partnerships in agro-processing, a key area for Ghana’s “Grow24” and value-addition drive. Belarus is known for advanced dairy and food processing technology, which Ghana hopes to adapt to reduce post-harvest losses.
President Mahama will also visit the Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex to pay respects at the site of the 1941 Soviet defence against Nazi forces.
Environment and landmark deals
The itinerary includes a visit to Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests. The visit highlights both countries’ commitment to environmental conservation.
A major outcome of the trip will be the signing of at least four landmark bilateral agreements. Presidency Communications says the agreements are designed to foster mutual growth and institutional collaboration between Ghana and Belarus in priority sectors.
President Mahama is expected to depart Belarus and return to Accra on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
The visit comes as Ghana seeks new trade and technical partners to diversify its economy beyond traditional Western markets.
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