Accra, June 10, GNA - As the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), celebrates its 17th anniversary, President John Evans Atta Mills on Wednesday paid tribute to all the progressive forces, that had kept the torch of the Party burning.

He however called on people in positions of trust and responsibility to equitably distribute the nation's resources to satisfy the needs of the vulnerable in society. President Mills was speaking with Mr Loius Ayala, Secretary General of the Socialist International (SI), who paid a courtesy call on him at the Osu Castle.

The Socialist International is an association of 170 political parties across the world that have socialist ideals. President Mills expressed thanks to the SI for contributing to the success of the NDC at the last December polls. He observed that the membership of the NDC of the SI is within the firm belief that governance, in the context of social democratic values has to be used to draw a balance between: "The harshness of the market with the compassion of the State."

President Mills called on political leaders to remember that they are elected, adding that now that most of the socialist parties are in control in a number of countries, they are in a position to meet the needs of the people especially the vulnerable. Mr Ayala, who was in Ghana two years ago, said he knew at that time that President Mills, who was then a candidate could bring decisive change.

He lauded the successful and peaceful conduct of Ghana's last general election, by which he said, Ghana proved its democratic strength and maturity to the world.

Mr Ayala said the SI was proud to be associated with the history of the NDC and would watch with keen interest how the NDC would handle the new chapter in Ghana politics.