Akosombo(ER), March 9, GNA - Vice President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday commended the Japanese Government for its continuous support to Ghana in her socio-economic development. "Japan is one of the countries in the world that has over the years offered grants and loans to Ghana without interest", he said. Vice President Mahama made the commendation when hosting the visiting Crown Prince of Japan, Prince Naruhito, at the Akosombo Presidential Lodge in the Eastern Region.

He is on a four-day official visit to Ghana. Prince Naruhito watched video clips of the Akosombo Dam, economic potentials in the area and reduction of youth unemployment in the country. Vice President Mahama said Japan had assisted Ghana in education, health, science and technology and was hopeful the visit would further strengthen the cordial relationship between both countries. He gave the assurance that Ghana would continue to play her role in ensuring that relationship between them was strengthened for their mutual benefit.

Prince Naruhito later had closed door talks with Vice President Mahama. He made a whistle stop at Akuse Junction to inspect grafted mangoes and interacted with the sellers. 9 March 10