Accra, June 17, GNA- Ghana and Canada on Wednesday took further steps to enhance their bilateral ties as they renewed their commitment to issues of mutual interest. President John Evans Atta Mills has consequently praised Canadian assistance to Ghana, especially in deprived communities, that went a long way to improve the lives of the people. In a chat with Mr Darren Schemmer, outgoing Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana at the Osu Castle in Accra, President Mills expressed Ghana's appreciation to Canada for her support to the Ghanaian economy over the years.

President Mills reiterated that Government was on course with the programme to improve the lives of the people, and that Government would in no way relent on its 'Better Ghana' agenda.

Acknowledging with thanks the support of the Canadian Government, President Mills lauded the cordial relations between Accra and Ottawa, and the support of Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in the areas of the construction of boreholes in the interest on improved water supply and sanitation, as well as the transfer of appropriate technology to Ghana.

President Mills expressed the hope that Canada would continue to support Ghana's development efforts, and help Government to achieve the 'Better Ghana Agenda'.

President Mills wished Mr Schemmer, who returns to Canada after almost three years duty tour of Ghana, the very best in his career and expressed the hope that Mr Schmmer's successor would continue from where he left off.

Mr Schemmer for his part, noted that Ghana had undergone a number of positive changes since his arrival in the country, adding that as the two nations continued to collaborate, Canada would intensify its assistance to Ghana for job creation.

Relations between Canada and Ghana reflect more than five decades of cooperation in international fora such as the UN and the Commonwealth, while Canada also supported Ghana's successful bid to become an associate member of La Francophone in 2006.

Additionally, Ghana is a core recipient of development assistance from Canada. The contributions represented approximately $71 million in 2006-2007. Canadian Development cooperation in Ghana has evolved significantly over the years. Canada has forgiven Ghana's debt amounting to $19.1 million. In October 2007, Canada dedicated $2.2 million to help address the impact of severe flooding in northern Ghana. 17 June 10