Roey Gilad, the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, has expressed strong belief in the possibility of peace between Israelis and Palestinians despite the current bleak state of affairs.
Mr. Gilad stressed that although the long-standing conflict had reached one of its lowest points, there remained hope for a peaceful resolution that would ensure the stability and prosperity of both nations.
Speaking at a reception in Accra to commemorate the 77th Anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, Mr. Gilad acknowledged the longstanding nature of the conflict but insisted that a peaceful resolution remained both necessary and achievable.
The event brought together diplomats, government officials, civil society leaders, and members of the Israeli community in Ghana to an evening of cultural elegance and diplomatic camaraderie.
The serene Movenpick Ambassador Hotel was adorned with Israeli and Ghanaian flags, softly lit by strings of lights that cast a warm glow over the gathering.
Guests mingled over a spread of Israeli delicacies, accompanied by soft traditional music that created an ambiance of reflection and celebration.
Amid the clinking of glasses and gentle laughter, conversations flowed about shared values, cooperation, and hopes for peace in the Middle East.
The atmosphere was both solemn and celebratory — honouring a nation’s journey while looking ahead with cautious optimism.
The event, among others, served as a moment of reflection on Israel’s history, achievements, and continued aspirations for peace and cooperation in the global arena.
Ambassador Gilad said: “As much as the situation looks gloomy today, I strongly believe that the relations between Israelis and Palestinians can and should be different,” he said.
“The conflict between us and the Palestinians is more than 100 years old, and it is now in one of its lowest points ever. However, at the end of the day there must be a peaceful solution that will serve the stability, prosperity, and the wellbeing of the two people,” he stated profoundly.
The Ambassador’s remarks come at a time of heightened tensions and humanitarian concerns in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, where ongoing violence has drawn international attention and calls for a ceasefire.
He emphasized that Israel remained committed to working with international partners, including African nations, to promote peace, security, and development.
Touching on the October 7 “massacre”, where nearly 1,200 people including civilians and soldiers were lost, Ambassador Gilad stated that out of the 251 captives being held in Gaza by Hamas terrorists, 59 were still being held after 578 days “of horror, pain, and uncertainty.”
The 77th Independence Day of Israel marks the country’s declaration of statehood in 1948 – a milestone that continues to evoke deep geopolitical significance around the world.
In Ghana, Israel has maintained strong diplomatic and development ties, particularly in areas such as agriculture, technology, health, cybersecurity, education, people-to-people relations among others.
The long-standing relations with Ghana began with the opening of an office in Accra in 1956, one year before Ghana achieved its independence.
In 1957, when Ghana became a sovereign state, the office became an Embassy, the first Israeli Embassy all over Africa.
Mr Gilad noted that the bilateral relations between Ghana and Israel had not been without challenges, including the geographical distance between the two states, financial crisis in 2022 and the war Israel had gone through in the last year “that changed our order of priorities and consumed much of our resources.”
Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, the Minister for Works, Housing, and Water Resources, who represented the Government of Ghana, in a speech, reaffirmed the deep and enduring ties between Ghana and Israel.
“It is a great honour for me to join you today in celebrating the National Day of the State of Israel. On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, I wish to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of Israel as you mark this important occasion,” the Minister said.
He praised Israel’s resilience and innovation, stating that the founding of the State of Israel and the enduring spirit of its people continued to inspire nations across the world.
Mr Adjei noted that Ghana and Israel shared a long-standing relationship rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and a shared vision for progress.
“From the early days of our country’s independence, Israel has been a valued partner in Ghana’s development journey,” he said.
He highlighted the positive impact of Israeli investment and expertise in key sectors such as agriculture, health, cybersecurity, and technology.
The Minister cited specific initiatives such as the Ghana-Israel Agribusiness Innovation Centre (GIAC) and training programmes offered by Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV), which had equipped many Ghanaians with valuable skills.
He also acknowledged Israel’s support through the consistent exchange of high-level visits, including the participation of Israeli officials in major national events.
The Water Resources Minister said, “As a friend of Israel, Ghana remains committed to the values of peace, dialogue and mutual understanding.”
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