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The French Embassy in Ghana has commemorated the French National Day to honour the French Revolution’s key moments which ended oppression and birthed freedom and democracy as well as uniting the people of France.
The French National Day also known as the “Bastille Day” signifies the anniversary of the Storming of Bastille on July 14, 1789, symbolising the fight of the French people against oppression.
It is in recognition of the "Féte de la Fédération” which was marked on July 14, 1790; a day to observe the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity, that became the motto of the French Republic. It also serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the pursuit of freedom and democracy.
The Bastille Day was observed at the Residence of the French Ambassador to Ghana in Accra last Saturday evening. It was also marked with a mini-Olympic which saw young Ghanaians demonstrate their talents in “judo, skateboard, boxing, breakdance, gymnastics and rhythmic dance” in raising awareness and promoting France's preparedness to host this year’s Summer Olympic Games in Paris which is expected to welcome 16 million visitors and 15,000 athletes from across the world.
The anniversary commemoration hosted by the French Ambassador to Ghana, Jules-Armand Aniambossou, was attended by a host of dignitaries including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo; former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings; Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng; ambassadors of various countries, some Members of Parliament; traditional leaders and the French Community in Ghana.
In his address, the Ambassador of France to Ghana, Jules-Armand Aniambossou, said the French government is taking a new course in establishing relationships and foreign policies with African countries based on respect, equality and reciprocity.
“France wants to rebuild a relationship with all the African countries based on mutual respect, equality and reciprocity. It's what we are doing here in Ghana by implementing a partnership based on balanced relations and a focus on civil society, the youth and entrepreneurship,” he said.
He lauded French companies in Ghana for remaining in the country despite the difficult circumstances Ghana went through. Additionally, their contribution to Ghana’s economy over the years has been immense with the creation of more than 50,000 direct and indirect jobs.
President Akufo-Addo, who spoke in French, reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to deepening its relationship with France as they share a common history and objectives.
“We are eager to expand our cooperation in areas such as renewable energies, technological innovation and sustainable development. Together, we can erase the challenges of our time and create a better future for our people,” he said.
He urged the French government to continue to defend its values of freedom, equality and fraternity, which were not only the cornerstone of their nation, but also a beacon of hope for the people of the world.
President Akufo-Addo said his government remain determined to ensure that Ghana cemented its name as the model of democracy in Africa in this year’s elections.
“As we approach December 2024, we remain determined to maintain our reputation as a model of democracy on the African continent. Our commitment to fair and transparent free elections is immeasurable. We are convinced that a strong and democratic Ghana will continue to inspire and set an example in Africa,” he said.
On security in the sub-region, President Akufo-Addo indicated that Ghana and its Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) partners were determined to work to re-establish democratic governance in Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali that now belong to the Alliance of Sahel State and Guinea. He said the re-establishment of democracy in these nations was essential for regional peace and regional development.
