The President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings appealed to Ghanaians living in the United States to contribute to the development of their motherland.

He said they could either put their skills at the disposal of their country or those with the means could set up industries to give employment to their countrymen and women.

The President, who was in the U.S. on a two-day working visit, was addressing the Ghanaian community at a reception held for him and his wife at the Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C.

He said countries and donor agencies had given Ghana enormous financial assistance and that had been used in building roads, and extending electricity to most parts of the country.

"So if you want to open your factory, you need not do it in either Accra or Tema. Let us do our duty to our country, do not deny us your skill."

The President told the group that they should not be afraid that their investments would be misused, adding, "that era is gone."

He spoke about Ghana-US relations in the early eighties and said there were difficulties because "maybe, the U.S. did not understand what was going on at that time."

Mr. P.V. Obeng, Mr. Sam Jonah, AGC Managing Director and Mr. Ishmael Yamson, chairman of Unilever, Ghana Limited, all spoke about progress made at home and invited the community to make their contribution.

The large Ghanaian crowd who came from various parts to welcome the President and the First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konado Agyeman Rawlings, was so happy for her ability to have a close and a family ???? with their President. Two great cultures the Ashanti and Volta entertained the guests with an authentic cultural display.

He said Ghana's economic growth rate was among the highest in Africa and the U.S. would continue to give its assistance.