I met with the Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to advance Ghana–Japan cooperation in three key areas: Cocoa and value addition, Strategic infrastructure and People-to-people ties. With Ghana supplying about 70% of Japan’s cocoa imports, we invited Japanese investment and a PPP with the Cocoa Processing Company to revamp the plant and deepen processing in Ghana. We discussed the Volivo Bridge over the Volta Lake and expressed appreciation for Japan’s JPY 11.239 billion support (signed in 2016). I reiterated Ghana’s request for additional funding, especially grants, to close the remaining 64% procurement gap and speed delivery of this vital link for moving yams, maize and other produce from the north to markets in the south. We noted the centenary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s arrival in Ghana and the 50th anniversary of JOCV in 2027—important milestones in our enduring partnership. Japan reaffirmed its readiness to work with us on infrastructure and to expedite solutions to funding gaps. We also discussed multilateral cooperation, including support for Japan’s candidate, Masahiko Metoki, for Director General of the UPU International Bureau, and Japan’s positions on UN Security Council reform. I am grateful for Japan’s continued friendship and look forward to concrete next steps that deliver jobs, value addition, and connectivity for Ghanaians. #TICAD9(John Dramani Mahama)