Ambassador Victor Smith hosted the Ambassador of Togo to the United States, Frédéric Edem Hegbe, for cordial and wide-ranging discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, regional integration, trade, energy, transportation, and cross-border development.

The meeting underscored the longstanding brotherly relations between Ghana and Togo, with both diplomats highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing common economic challenges and unlocking regional opportunities. The two Ambassadors reflected on Energy and Industrial Development within the sub-region. Ambassador Smith stressed the importance of strengthening regional cooperation to support industrial growth, noting that reliable power remains essential for economic transformation. “We want to boost our industry. You need energy to boost your industry,” Ambassador Smith remarked as the two diplomats discussed energy supply and regional infrastructure collaboration.

Ambassador Hegbe highlighted Togo’s growing industrial and export sectors, particularly the country’s phosphate industry, which remains one of its major sources of foreign exchange. “Our phosphate is one of the best ones after Morocco,” he stated, explaining that Togo exports phosphate to markets including Europe, Japan and Israel for fertilizer and sulfuric acid production. Beyond minerals, the Togolese envoy pointed to agriculture as another major pillar of Togo’s economy, citing coffee and soy production as emerging areas of growth and international trade. He referenced the increasing export of Togolese soy products to international markets including the United States and China.

The meeting highlighted the close cooperation between Ghana and Togo on border management and security. Ambassador Hegbe commended the successful operation of joint border posts between the two countries, particularly in Akanu and Noepe, describing them as practical examples of effective regional collaboration. The diplomats further discussed ongoing joint infrastructure initiatives, including a proposed water pipeline project expected to transport water from Sogakope in Ghana into parts of Togo to support communities and aid development efforts.

Another major area of discussion was regional aviation and connectivity. The ambassadors praised the expansion of Togolese carrier ASKY Airlines and its growing role in connecting West Africa with the United States and other international destinations. Ambassador Hegbe explained that ASKY Airlines now operates direct flights between Lomé and Washington twice weekly, significantly improving travel convenience for West Africans, including Ghanaians. “Today, Saturday and Tuesday, there will be two direct flights from Lomé to Washinton” he said, adding that many travelers now transit through Lomé before continuing to Accra and other West African destinations. Ambassador Smith welcomed the development, noting its benefits for Ghanaian students, professionals and travelers in the diaspora. “This is good. Our students are benefiting from it,” he remarked.

The meeting concluded with both diplomats reaffirming their commitment to strengthening Ghana-Togo relations through practical cooperation in trade, infrastructure, transport, border security and regional economic integration. Their discussions reflected the broader vision of West African unity and collaboration as a pathway toward sustainable development and shared prosperity.