This, she said, would enable the Ghanaian business owners to foster a lasting business relationship with their Chinese counterparts.

The President was speaking at the launch of the Laweh University College and Shanghai Open University Chinese Language Centre, at the premises of the University.

The launch marked a significant milestone in promoting the study of Chinese language and culture in Ghana.

Present at the launch were key personalities from Laweh University, the Consulate of China, and representatives from Shanghai Open University.

Representatives of the Shanghai Open University included ZHANG Jin, Vice President, Shanghai Open University; WENG Zhuhua, Dean of the Institute of International Exchange of Shanghai University; and CHEN Henan, Director of the Department of Foreign Languages.

The President of Laweh University stressed that China remained Ghana's biggest trade partner and a global economic giant thus learning Chinese would provide more opportunities to Ghanaian businesses.

"If Ghanaians who trade with the Chinese can understand the language, I believe it can facilitate trade negotiations and partnership between the two countries. We live in a globalised world now, and our businesses here in Ghana are supposed to have a global mindset and orientation. We know that China is a global powerhouse; therefore, no economy in the world can ignore China.

Learning the language will be beneficial to Ghanaian businesses," she said.

Prof. Alabi informed that the Chinese Language Centre will be beneficial to students, business owners, and employees of companies owned by Chinese citizens.

She noted that the establishment of the language centre will be a "door opening" opportunity for Ghanaian students, stressing that it would enhance their chances of furthering their studies in China.

Ghana and China's trade relationship have seen significant growth over the years.
In 2022, China exported $7.91 billion worth of top products, including coated flat-rolled iron, rubber footwear, and pesticides to Ghana.

On the other hand, Ghana exported $2.01 billion to China, mainly crude petroleum, manganese ore, and aluminium ore.

Mr ZHANG Jin, Vice President, Shanghai Open University, said the establishment of overseas language centres was key in promoting Chinese and African culture exchange.

The two educational institutions, she asserted, shared the same educational philosophy of providing flexible education through technology.