Ghana backs Carney’s call for fairer global trade and financial rules

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 06, 2026

Photo courtesy: The Globe and Mail

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has praised Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for speaking out against global financial rules that he says place African countries at a disadvantage.

The two leaders met on Tuesday, November 3, during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda.

Mahama said African nations face higher borrowing costs despite contributing relatively little to climate change. Many also struggle to fund recovery efforts after floods, droughts, and other climate disasters.

He described the situation as a “rigged global system” that makes it harder for African countries to address these challenges.

Mahama said Africa accounts for just four percent of global contributions to the climate crisis but faces some of its worst effects.

He praised Carney for defending international cooperation and speaking against policies that weaken global trade rules.

“You are a fresh new voice in terms of global advocacy,” Mahama told the Canadian prime minister.

The Ghanaian leader also pointed to Canada’s experience with higher tariffs. He said the trade restrictions showed why countries should work together to defend a rules-based international system.

Mahama urged Canada to support African calls for changes to global lending practices. He said developing nations need fairer access to financing, especially as they deal with growing climate risks.

The meeting also focused on strengthening ties between Ghana and Canada.

Mahama recalled Canada’s long history of development support in Ghana, including projects that helped rural communities in the country’s northern region.

He said both nations could build on that relationship through closer economic cooperation.

Carney expressed Canada’s willingness to expand partnerships with Ghana in energy, critical minerals, trade, and development.

The two leaders also discussed a possible agreement covering several areas of cooperation.

Mahama said countries that support international rules and cooperation should strengthen their ties as global trade and political relations continue to change.