Accra, June 5, GNA - President John Evans Atta Mills on Friday called on nations of the world to deepen collaboration, dialogue and interaction with the business community as they seek ways to address the global economic downturn.

In a discussion with a delegation from Newmont Ghana led by Mr Richard O'Brien, President and Chief Executive of Newmont Mining Corporation, President Mills underscored collaboration of nations and businesses to identify how to make up for the shortfalls and ways to address the current global financial crisis.

"We have to interact to see where we're coming from and where we're going," President Mils said, and noted that Newmont was well known in Ghana, especially with its activities in the Brong-Ahafo Region. President Mills, in reaction to the commendation from the delegation for his assumption of the high office of president, said Ghanaians were the people who deserved that commendation for their determination to ensure a peaceful poll and smooth transition of power. President Mills urged the people of the Brong-Ahafo Region, where Newmont has a number of activities, to be assured of fruitful partnership between government and Newmont to address mining issues. Mr O'Brien commended Ghana for making her democracy work, and observed that Ghana's peaceful transition was a shining light for the rest of Africa.

He later told journalists that Newmont was committing $950 million to its operations in Ghana. Also at the Castle was a delegation from Sunshine Technology Group, led Mr Chris Becker, the Chief Executive Officer, to discuss investment opportunities in the timber industry in Ghana. The meeting was held behind close doors. Sunshine's operational base is in the town of Mengzi, the administrative capital of Honghe Prefecture in China.