"We appreciate very much the relationship we are building up with Spain in various areas such as defence, security, tourism and sports,” he said. The President also mentioned enhancement of economic ties between the two countries, saying “it proves to be very easy-going dealing with Spain".

President Akufo-Addo was speaking at a farewell reception in Accra on Monday, in honour of the outgoing Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Javier Gutiérrez, after a three-year duty tour of Ghana.

At the event were ministers of state, including the Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah; the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame.

Also present were the Head of the EU Delegation to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly, representatives of other member states of the EU, the diplomatic corps, as well as the Spanish community in Ghana.

Commendation

The President commended Mr Gutiérrez for the good work he had done in growing the relationship between Spain and Ghana. He attributed the prevailing warm relations between the two countries to the ambassador’s efforts during his tenure of office.

As a result, the President said anytime he had the opportunity of meeting the Spanish Prime Minister either in Spain or at other fora, the reception had always been encouraging.

President Akufo-Addo was also happy that his wife, and that of the ambassador, share a common first name — Rebecca, including the fact that he was a fanatic of Spanish football giants, Real Madrid CF.

The President wished Mr Gutierrez the best of luck in his new posting, saying "know that you have a lot of friends here in Ghana, and we always wish your return here".

Appreciation

Mr Gutiérrez said it was an honour to have served in Ghana, explaining that the country was a regional leader and an influential global actor in the global scene. "Ghana is a glimpse into Africa's future and opportunities. Ghana is a priority country for Spain in Africa.

“Spain has used this insight to develop its new Africa strategy soon to be unveiled. Among some of the highlights of the past few years, Ghana has been included as an eligible country for Spanish cooperation.

"Wherever I go with my family, I can assure you that Ghana and all of you will have a friend in us," he said.