Accra, Aug 26, GNA - President Jerry John Rawlings on Saturday granted audience to two United States Senators and an Army Officer, who are in the country as part of an African tour. Their discussions centred on political, economic and security issues.

The talks between Senator Richard Shelby, a Republican, Senator Robert Kerry, a Democrat and Colonel Timothy Peterson and the President was to enable the US team understand the national security implications of the region. The discussions also focused on some international trade practices that tend to undermine Ghana's economic progress. The team would also visit the Great Lakes Region.

With President Rawlings were Nii Okaija Adamafio, Minister of the Interior, Mr Dan Abodakpi, Minister of Trade and Industry and Mr Joseph Laryea, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. President Rawlings lauded the passage of the African Growth and Opportunities Act by the US Congress, which would allow African countries more access to the US market and expressed the hope that the outcome of the November Presidential Elections in the US would not affect its implementation. President Rawlings said the problems facing Africa are so daunting that the continent cannot solve them alone. "We need assistance. The World is tired of the horrible scenes we see on our television screens".

Mr Shelby expressed satisfaction with Ghana/US relations and told President Rawlings that "you brought stability and leadership to your country. You have brought changes, fast changes". He said Ghana lost some opportunities after independence but "things are on track now". "The US Administration says it is working well with you. You have done well. Congratulations". Mr Shelby said some countries are making progress in Africa so it would be wrong to deal with the continent as a single unit plagued by wars and instability.