Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has assured Ghanaians that the Mahama administration is taking proactive steps to protect the country’s interests amid growing global concerns over new U.S. visa restrictions.
In a post on X on Thursday, January 8, Mr Ablakwa said government remains committed to pursuing a foreign policy that safeguards Ghanaian citizens, even as more countries are subjected to stringent U.S. visa measures, including refundable bonds of up to US$15,000.
“As many more countries face U.S. visa sanctions and US$15,000 visa bonds, Ghanaians can be assured that the Mahama Administration will continue to pursue mutually beneficial foreign policy objectives that align with our strategic national interest and ensure our citizens are not disadvantaged,” he stated, adding, “Trust us to keep fighting for you. For God and Country.”
His comments come at a time when the United States is quietly expanding a visa-bond pilot programme aimed at reducing visa overstays.
The policy requires nationals of selected countries to post a refundable financial bond when applying for certain visitor visas, serving as a guarantee of timely departure from the U.S.
Since its introduction last year, the programme has been extended to additional countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, raising fears of wider application. Although Ghana is not currently affected, the development has triggered concern among travellers, businesses and policymakers about possible future inclusion.
Critics of the policy argue that it places a heavy financial burden on ordinary travellers and legitimate businesses, while potentially slowing visa processing due to additional documentation requirements.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
