Accra (Greater Accra) 19 April ?99

President Jerry Rawlings on Saturday pledged Ghana's co-operation with the incoming Nigerian government for the sustenance of peace and stability in the West Africa sub-region.

The Nigerian President-elect, General Olusengu Obasanjo, would pay attention to the challenges facing the region, notwithstanding domestic issues, he expressed hope. "We do not live in isolation, therefore the peace and stability of others in the region should be of equal concern to us," President Rawlings said to welcome Gen Obasanjo shortly before they went into closed-door talks.

Gen. Obasanjo arrived in Accra early in the morning with a team of politicians and businessmen for a day's visit as part of his global tour.

President Rawlings said it is necessary for leaders of the sub- region, particularly those of Ghana and Nigeria, to provide the right leadership to create the appropriate atmosphere to sustain stability. He commended Nigeria for its consistent commitment to the challenges over the years saying that country has never abdicated her responsibility not only to her people but also to the entire continent. President Rawlings congratulated Gen Obasanjo who will assume office next month, for winning the honour and confidence of his people.

He expressed the belief that he is assuming the mantle with a great deal of goodwill and determination to overcome the complexities that go with it in order to build on the foundation laid by Gen Abdusalami Abubakar. Gen Obasanjo responded that he has always ''regarded Ghana as a true friend and a brother of Nigeria,'' hence the visit.

"My visit is a friendly one and a goodwill one to a brother," he told President Rawlings, adding that he decided to visit Ghana before he assumes the hectic office. He said he credits every opportunity he has had in life to Ghana as his ''beginning place''.

Gen Obasanjo commended the government and people of Ghana for supporting his country (Nigeria's) throughout its turbulent period.

He also praised Ghana's leadership role in the search for peace and stability in the sub-region. Gen Obasanjo said while in Ghana, he would discuss bilateral and multilateral issues with the authorities.

Mr James Victor Gbeho, Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed the hope that consultations with the President-elect will boost efforts of Ghana and Nigeria for the advancement of the sub-region.