UNCLAS ACCRA 002985

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: EAID PREL SI GH
SUBJECT: SINGAPORE'S ASSISTANCE IN GHANA


On December 11, CDA met with Singapore's High Commissioner to
Ghana, Giam Chin Toon, at his request. Based in Singapore,
he was making an annual visit to Ghana, meeting with a range
of GOG officials and donors to explore additional
possibilities for Singaporean technical assistance. Because
of their common British colonial ties, Giam thought Singapore
could share relevant experiences with Ghana, although he said
Singapore does not provide direct financial aid. Singapore
can provide technical expertise and has sent almost 400
Ghanaians to Singapore on various types of training in the
past, according to Giam. He highlighted areas of possible
future technical assistance in governance (such as judicial
and civil service training), rural and township development,
aviation and law enforcement. "We would be happy to manage
projects," he added, noting that Singapore was providing
technical assistance to projects in three countries in the
Middle East and two states in China. Comment: Giam was
pleasant and eager to engage, emphasizing the need for
Ghanaians to help themselves and overcome their dependency on
aid money. We will look for ways to tap Singaporean
assistance in ways that reinforce Mission programs. End
comment.
BROWN