News:
February 28, 2012
The Vice President, H.E John Dramani Mahama has urged the ECOWAS Parliament to double up its efforts at achieving a full integration of the Sub-Region.
According to him despite the idea of the integration of the Sub- Region adopted over three decades ago, the slow pace at which the process is moving has made the realization of the vision difficult.
Speaking at the on-going ECOWAS seminar in Accra, Vice President John Mahama urged the sub- regional body to avoid unnecessary bottle neck which could mar the integration process.
He mentioned for instance that though ECOWAS protocol allows for a-90 day free visa for citizens of ECOWAS member state during their visit to other member state, some Immigration officers still determine the duration of visit by these citizens.
The situation he says affects business among countries.
He added that the numerous check points on the roads of some member states coupled with bribery and corruption adversely affect trade, as the traders lose interest in doing business in those countries.
H.E John Mahama urged Nigeria, West Africa’s largest Economy to assume the leadership role of ensuring trade liberalization and integration of the Sub-Region.
Kwadwo Anim/Ghanamps.gov.gh