Acknowledging The Progress And Importance Of Ghana

Floor Speech

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Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to applaud the efforts of Ghana in promoting good governance and civic participation. President Obama will wrap up the third leg of his international trip in Ghana. He will be there today.

I am reminded of the important role this democratic nation plays in the international world. Ghana is an active participant in the United Nations and the African Union. In its region, it has been extremely active in international peacekeeping.

Ghana, the first state in Sub-Saharan Africa to gain its independence, has shown that it is a stable nation whose government and people are accountable to one another. These acts are a good first step in developing future relationships between our Nation and Ghana.

One of my constituents, five-time karate and kickboxing champion, Anthony ``Amp'' Elmore, fulfilled his lifelong dream by visiting Ghana in 1998. The champ visited Accra, and it has changed his life.

After returning to Memphis, Amp developed his vision of educating and enlightening people about the cultural and economic importance of Africa as a continent, as well as Ghana. At his home and throughout the city, he showcased African artifacts, fabrics and arts.

This weekend, on Friday and Saturday both, he will be honoring Africa at his home and inviting the public and having a fashion show and an African dinner. I will be there. Next year, I will visit Ghana and hope to develop trade between our city, Ghana and our Nation.

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