Vice President Kwesi Amissah-Arthur has advocated a paradigm shift in the relations between Ghana and Japan, adding that there are more opportunities the two sides could explore for the benefit of their citizenry.

He said although the partnership between the two countries has yielded significant dividends over the years, “we have to move our cooperation and friendship to a higher level”.?

Vice President Amissah-Arthur made the call when the new Japanese Ambassador, Koaru Yoshimuru, called on him at the Flagstaff House in Accra on Tuesday, to discuss issues of mutual concern.

He noted that efforts to address the adverse effects of global economic challenges on countries, particularly developing ones, require countries to form viable partnerships to pursue initiatives for economic stability and growth.

“No country can do it all alone,” he said.

According to Vice President Amissah-Arthur because Ghana and Japan share common development challenges, it is necessary for the two sides to intensify their partnership for socio-economic development.

“Ghana remains committed in that respect, because we consider Japan as a reliable development partner,” he added.

Vice President Amissah-Arthur reminded Mr Yoshimuru of the task ahead and urged him to elevate the ties between the two countries.

He assured him of government’s support and cooperation to enable him to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.

Mr Yoshimuru pledged to work to expand the bilateral cooperation as well as trade and investment.