The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration on Saturday held the 2024 edition of the Diplomatic Fun Games at the Ghana Armed Forces Sports Complex, Burma Camp, Accra.
Dubbed: “A Day with the Diplomatic Community”, the event was opened by Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
On the theme: “Strengthening Relationships, Creating Lasting Memories,” the event aimed at fostering community spirit and enhancing cooperation between the Foreign Ministry and the diplomatic community in Ghana.
Members of the diplomatic corps and staff of the Foreign Affairs Ministry participated in games such as football, volleyball, table tennis and long tennis, at the end of which awards were presented to deserving winners.
The children, who were not left out, entertained themselves in games such as swimming and musical chairs.
Another interesting part of the event was that continental dishes such as Ghanaian, Lebanese, Rwandese, Saudi, Zambian, and Ivorian dishes were served.
Madam Ayorkor Botchwey, in her opening remarks, said the event was to bring some fun into the lives of the diplomats and the staff of the Ministry.
“So, this is why we have created this opportunity for socialisation. We all know that socialisation is a key part of human existence and how we all thrive. So, it’s not just formally but also informal interactions. We believe it will foster unity among the diplomats…,” she said.
She recalled that the Ministry organised a similar one last year, which was well patronized and that the diplomats were very happy with it.
Mr Ramses Joseph Cleland, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, said the Ministry instituted the first Diplomatic Fun Day in 2023 to help forge closer bonds of friendship between the officers of the Ministry and members of the diplomatic community.
He said sports was one of the best means to bring people closer, break ceilings, build trust, create camaraderie as well as deepen existing bonds of friendship across all divides.
Mr Maher Kheir, the Lebanese Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Community in Ghana, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, lauded Ghana for organising the Diplomatic Fun Games.
He said the event was more than sportive and cultural activities; saying “It represents a unique opportunity to strengthen international ties and deepen collaboration and understanding among diverse cultures.”
Engaging in various sports and cultural activities would go a long way to foster friendships and promote the spirit of cooperation and unity among nations, he said.
