H.E Mr Isaac Osei, Ghana's High Commissioner to the UK, has said the Government would continue to accept criticisms in good faith and would not shun any well meaning advice no matter the source.

He said that the development of the country required the support of all Ghanaians irrespective of their political stance and added that the Government’s belief in democratic values would continue to remain topmost on its agenda to lay the foundation for good governance for the country.

In remarks at a forum held for the Ghanaian community in Middlesbrough as part of the Mission's outreach programme, Mr Osei, however, pointed out that the Government would not take populist decisions detrimental to the long-term interest of Ghana and the orderly development of the economy.

He said, amidst applause, that the Government would be resolute in all matters affecting the security of the State not only to ensure political stability but also to enhance individual freedoms and private business activities.

Mr Osei briefed the well-attended forum, on a number of measures, which had so far been taken to boost the image of the country within international financial circles.

He said with prudent management, the stage had been set for the orderly growth of the country.

"Today the economic decline has been halted; macro-economic stability has been restored, with the resultant lowering of inflation and interest rates.”

He touched on the President’s initiatives on production of cassava, starch, and textiles and outlined plans to reconstruct some of the major highways to meet international standards.

Answering questions raised on foreign the trips so far undertaken by the President, Mr Osei recounted the benefits which had accrued to the nation as a result of the visit such as, the cancellation of some of Ghana's debts, increases in grants to the country for socio- economic development, and added that the trips had been positive and beneficial because Ghana is now being seen as a viable destination for private direct investment and a stable and reliable partner in international trade.

Other issues raised at the forum centred on the need for government to continue to protect Ghana's democracy, speedy issuance of certificates to those who have applied for Dual Citizenship status and concern about armed robberies being committed by fellow brothers from the ECOWAS Community.

A copy of a diskette produced by the Ghana Investment Centre on investment opportunities and publicity materials were later presented to the executives of the association.

Dr. S.A.Y. Debrah, President of the Association of Ghanaians in Middlesbrough, thanked the High Commissioner and staff for the visit and promised to interest Ghanaians in Teeside about developments at home.

He said medical professionals within the association would be prepared to render voluntary service to various communities in Ghana during their vacation and asked the Ministry of Health to work out the modalities for such a scheme.

While in Middlesbrough, Mr Osei paid a courtesy call on the Mayor of Middlesbrough, Councillor Ray Mallon and the Speaker, Councillor Ken Hall. Discussions centred on a wide range of issues.

The High Commissioner used the occasion to enlighten them on the forthcoming Ghana Commonwealth Investment Conference and other measures being taken by the Government to bring sanity into the economy.

Councillor Ray Mallon thanked the High Commissioner for the visit and pledged to do everything within his power to assist the Ghanaian Community Association. The two later exchanged gifts. Publicity materials on Ghana, Kente stoles and ties were presented to the Mayor and the Speaker.