Accra, Feb. 26, GNA - Ghana and Indonesia on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening the cultural relationship between the two countries.

Signing the memorandum, Professor George Hagan, Chairman of the National Commission on Culture (NCC), said the ties between the two countries dated back to the era when the ancient Indonesia mariners on board the Borobudour Ship sailed to the West Coast of Africa.

He expressed the hope that the relationship, which had occasioned the signing of the MOU, would mark the beginning for the exchange of scientific and cultural ideas to the benefit of both countries. Professor Hagan also stressed the need for knowledge sharing that would be of mutual benefit, particularly, opening up of available educational opportunities.

He advocated the establishment of an Indonesian Embassy in Ghana and called for the building of a replica of the Borobuduor ship to be showcased at the national museum.

Mr Igede Ardika, Indonesia Minister of Culture and Tourism, said his government had reconstructed the ancient ship to retrace the trade routes used by the ancient mariners in the first millennium.

He said the idea was to revamp the relationship existing between Indonesia and countries of the West Coast and strengthen economic ties. "The expedition is being used as an opportunity to prove to the world and remind the Indonesian community of the achievements of the Indonesia Maritime Industry and boost tourism, economic ties and international operation", Mr Ardika said.