Ghana and Austria are taking steps to deepen bilateral cooperation in tourism, culture and the creative arts following high-level talks aimed at formalising a new partnership framework.

Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts (MoTCCA), Abla Dzifa Gomashie, welcomed a proposed non-binding Statement of Intent between the two countries, describing it as a key precursor to a formal Memorandum of Understanding that would strengthen collaboration across the sectors.

At a meeting held at the ministry, an Austrian delegation led by Josef Schellhorn and accompanied by Jürgen Heisseloutlined priority areas for cooperation. These include gastronomy, music, dance, tourism education and broader opportunities within the creative economy.

The Minister highlighted Ghana’s readiness for investment, particularly in hospitality development. Plans include establishing a world-class hospitality school and expanding Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism infrastructure through strategic partnerships.

Both sides also agreed in principle to introduce a scholarship exchange programme to strengthen institutional collaboration and deepen people-to-people connections. The Austrian delegation further announced the opening of the Austrian Cultural Forum Accra as a platform to engage Ghanaian institutions across academia and the arts.

Officials say the engagement underscores Ghana’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and international partnerships aimed at driving growth in tourism and the creative industries.