New German government will continue to support Ghana’s economic recovery – Daniel Krull

Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghana’s economic recovery and strengthening bilateral ties, regardless of the outcome of the country’s ongoing coalition government negotiations.

Speaking on Sunday, German Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Daniel Krull, emphasized that Ghana remains a shining example of democracy in West Africa, and Germany’s cooperation with the country will continue irrespective of which government takes office.

“Whatever government that comes around the corner, they will focus on Ghana as a beacon of democracy in West Africa, and we will continue to assist Ghana in its strife for economic recovery,” Mr. Krull stated.

His remarks followed Germany’s recently concluded federal elections, during which the Embassy, in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut, hosted a German election party watch event.

The Conservative Party, comprising the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) and its Bavarian counterpart, the Christian Social Union (CSU), led by Mr. Friedrich Merz, emerged as the winner of the elections. However, the party secured only 28.6 percent of the vote, falling short of its anticipated 30 percent target. Reports indicate that Mr. Merz’s primary focus will be forming a coalition with Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), which recorded its worst-ever election result at 16.4 percent.

Despite the shifting political landscape, Mr. Krull assured that Germany’s bilateral cooperation with Ghana would not be disrupted.

“All parties willing to negotiate a future coalition government are within the center of the democratic spectrum and will follow the mainstream of our bilateral cooperation,” he said.

While acknowledging possible policy nuances, he highlighted the longstanding engagement of parliamentarians from both the CDU and SPD with Ghana, reflecting a shared enthusiasm for the two nations’ strong diplomatic ties.

Madam Anna Wassesfall, Resident Representative of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, described the election results as a reflection of the will and sovereignty of the German people. She noted that key campaign issues revolved around illegal migration, economic progress, and security concerns, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine.

She further emphasized that both the CDU and SPD support collaborations with African countries. With a likely CDU-led coalition involving the SPD, she projected stronger trade and investment ties between Germany, Europe, and Africa.

The election watch event was marked by a blend of politics, culture, and tradition. Guests enjoyed German delicacies such as bratwurst sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut, and traditional German beer.

“It’s always exciting to see how democracy unfolds, no matter where you are. It feels special to be with my fellow Germans here in Ghana, sharing this experience, and it’s nice to know people are interested in the outcome, even from afar,” said Michael Schneider, a German expatriate living in Accra.

A symbolic voting exercise was also held during the event, allowing both Germans and Ghanaians present to cast ballots for their preferred MPs and parties. The Green Party emerged as the winner, securing 32.7 percent of the votes.