Lee showcases “chocolate diplomacy” at Korea-Ghana summit

Mar 12, 2026, 08:44 am

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President Lee Jae-myung and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama shake hands ahead of their summit at the presidential office in Seoul on March 11. /Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama agreed March 11 to expand cooperation in maritime security, digital technology and climate response during a summit in Seoul.

Mahama is the first African leader to visit South Korea since Lee took office. It is also the first visit by a Ghanaian president since the Korea-Africa Summit in 2024.

Following their talks at the presidential office, the two leaders signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) aimed at strengthening cooperation in three key areas: climate change response, maritime security, and digital and technological collaboration.

As part of the agreements, the Korea Coast Guard and the Ghana Navy signed an MOU on maritime safety and security cooperation. The two sides agreed to expand exchanges in training and education and increase information sharing to combat maritime crimes such as piracy and the trafficking of weapons and drugs.

The cooperation is expected to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea, a region where piracy threats remain significant, and contribute to protecting South Korean citizens and vessels operating in the area.

In opening remarks at the summit, Lee expressed appreciation for Ghana’s cooperation in safeguarding maritime safety.

“Ghana has been a grateful partner in helping protect the safety of our citizens in the Gulf of Guinea, where piracy threats persist,” Lee said.

He also described Ghana as an important gateway for South Korea’s expansion into the African market, noting its geographic position bordering three West African countries.

Lee also presented Mahama with a specially produced set of “Ghana Chocolate,” a popular snack in South Korea, in what officials described as a form of “chocolate diplomacy.”

First released in 1975, the chocolate product has been widely loved by Korean consumers for nearly five decades and is made primarily with cocoa beans sourced from Ghana. The presidential office prepared customized packaging featuring Mahama’s name and the national flags of both countries and delivered the gift to the visiting leader’s residence.

“Since 1975, chocolate made with cocoa from Ghana has been loved by the Korean people,” Lee said. “I hope you liked the Ghana chocolate that was presented as a gift yesterday.”

Lee also noted that South Korea and Ghana will mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.

“Our two countries share similarities in overcoming the hardships of colonial rule and authoritarian regimes to achieve democracy,” he said. “I hope exchanges between our peoples will continue to expand and strengthen relations across many areas.”

#Lee Jae-myung #John Dramani Mahama #Ghana #Korea-Ghana summit