President J.A.Kufuor returned home last night from Canada after a five-day official visit at the invitation of the Governor- General, Madame Adrienne Clarkson.

The president was accompanied by his wife Theresa, Ms Elisabeth Ohene, Minister at the President's Office, Dr. Adombila Agambila and Deputy Minister Finance. President Kufuor described the visit as historic, since it was the maiden visit by a Ghanaian Head of State.

Speaking to journalist at the Kotoka International Airport, he said Canada was surprised that it has taken such a long time for such a visit and that the Governor-General, Clarkson praised Ghana for her smooth transition of government and acknowledged the sound economic policies of the government as well as efforts at reconciling the country, rule of law and good governance.

He said Canada has been a consistent donor to Ghana in terms of finance and technical support, especially in the development of the water sector in the northern part of Ghana.

The President said he used the opportunity to ask for more assistance in developing Ghana's infrastructure, adding that the Canadian officials readily assured him of their support in the social services as well as economic investment.

The Canadian government gave the assurance that it would give Africa priority in the forthcoming Group of Eight Summit to be hosted by Canada next year, President Kufuor said.

A meeting between Ghana and Canada has been scheduled for early next year to review the relationship between the two countries.

The President visited the Ghanaian community in Ottawa and Toronto, where he briefed them on the developmental efforts of the government and the dual citizenship bill.