Ghana’s reception of Burkina Faso’s Traoré won’t harm relations with the West – Dr. Ishmael Hlovor

International relations expert, Dr. Ishmael Hlovor, has assured that Ghana’s reception of Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré, will not jeopardize the country’s relations with the Western world.

Speaking in an interview with ABC News GH on Friday, January 10, Dr. Hlovor emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced diplomatic stance in such delicate matters.

Dr. Hlovor noted that isolating Burkina Faso, especially after Traoré’s rise to power, could be detrimental to Ghana’s own regional and international standing.

“It was important that we reached out to him, and he responded. The move to bring them onboard is welcoming,” he said, highlighting Ghana’s diplomatic approach as one of neutrality rather than opposition.

He further explained that this engagement with Traoré should not be seen as a divergence from Ghana’s Western ties. Instead, it exemplifies Ghana’s commitment to maintaining peace and dialogue with its neighbors.

“We must ensure we don’t apply double standards, especially when dealing with leaders like Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast and Ibrahim Traoré,” Dr. Hlovor added.