Kumasi, May 11, GNA - Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, on Wednesday urged Africans in the Diaspora to commit part of their resources towards the socio-economic development of the country. "You should not neglect your roots but endeavour to bring your expertise and experience to bear on the country's development," He added.

The Asantehene made the call when Mr Anthony A. Williams, Mayor of Washington DC, paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi as part of his four-day visit to Ghana to establish a sister-city relationship with the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

Mr Williams' wife, Diane, and a 32-man delegation that comprised investors, economists, researchers and technocrats accompanied him. Otumfuo Osei Tutu noted that by virtue of their rich educational background and technological advancement, Africans in the Diaspora "were in a better position to support the development agenda of developing countries like Ghana."

He lauded efforts being made by Mr Stanley Nii Adjiri-Blankson, Accra Metropolitan Chief Executive to establish a close relationship with Washington DC, adding, "I hope you will sustain this bilateral ties for the benefit of all."

The Asantehene commended the Government for the establishment of the Ministry of Tourism and Diasporean Relations to facilitate tourism drive of the country.

Mr Williams commended the Asantehene for his vision and good leadership qualities, which had won him recognition and admiration all over the world.

He said the city of Washington DC would not neglect Asanteman in its bid to facilitate educational development in Ghana.