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Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey (MP), has recounted the tremendous constraints that Ghana has faced and the remarkable progress it has experienced across sectors, since independence, acknowledging the numerous friends and partners who have supported the country in this journey.

She was addressing a section of the Ghanaian community as well as the diplomatic and business communities at the anniversary celebration of Ghana’s 62nd Independence in London.

The Minister, was particularly enthusiastic about gains made in the trade and investment sector, applauding growing relations between Ghana and the United Kingdom saying, "it is transitioning from aid dependence to one of trade and economic partnership."

The growing relations between the two countries has seen the inauguration of the United Kingdom/Ghana Business Council, informing the signing of a communique.

This, according to her, would "further boost the trade and investment relations" between the two countries and prepare the grounds for improved relations as the Brexit negotiations approaches closure.

On tourism, Hon. Ayorkor Botchwey encouraged Ghanaians in the diaspora, people of African descent and all well-wishers and lovers of freedom to support the commitment of ensuring that the bolts on Ghana’s history would never recur.

She encouraged Ghanaians to take advantage of the 2019 Year of Return Celebrations and to see at first hand, developments taking place in the country.

“I am hopeful that participating in this event will enable many of our compatriots to take the bold step of moving back home and contributing to the development of our motherland,” she said.

Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey used the occasion to announce the decision of Government of Ghana to review downwards, Passport Fees in the United Kingdom (UK), a move that is expected to take effect in due course.