Czech President slams US tariffs on Africa during state visit to Ghana

President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel, has launched a scathing critique of the United States over its recent imposition of sweeping tariffs on African nations, including Ghana.

Speaking during a joint press conference with President John Dramani Mahama at Jubilee House in Accra, President Pavel described the US move as “brutal” and “unfortunate”, warning of its potentially devastating impact on vulnerable economies across the developing world.

The Czech leader, currently on a three-day state visit to Ghana, voiced concern about Washington’s unilateral decision to introduce tariffs ranging from 10% to 50% on imports from dozens of countries. The policy shift, aimed at bolstering American industry, has been met with fierce criticism from economists, diplomats, and global leaders.

“I think imposing tariffs in such a brutal way really doesn’t help either side,” President Pavel said. “It will not help the situation in Africa, and it will not help the situation in Europe, Asia, and even the United States.”

He singled out the effects on some of the world’s poorest countries, such as Lesotho, Cambodia, and Laos — all of which now face some of the highest tariffs in US history. “It could be easily destroying their economies,” he warned.

Pavel called for a united diplomatic response to engage the United States in meaningful dialogue. “We have to collectively address the United States to rethink this approach and to negotiate… not destroying countries, because by damaging their economies so much, it would create a number of problems that will have to be dealt with later on that may prove much more costly,” he said.

President Mahama, who returned to office following Ghana’s 2024 general elections, echoed his counterpart’s sentiments. He cautioned against the dismantling of the global rule-based trading system, which he said had fostered significant economic growth around the world.

“We all accepted a rule-based trading system and it has served the world well,” Mahama stated. “If you understand that one of the largest contributors to Lesotho’s economy is the trade and garments industry… then you can be sure that it’s going to affect a small country like Lesotho.”

He urged global leaders to prioritize collective progress over national self-interest. “We must look at the broader global partnerships and the global interests rather than just our parochial national interests,” he said.

The press conference marked a key moment during President Pavel’s visit, which is focused on deepening bilateral ties between Ghana and the Czech Republic. The two leaders also discussed trade cooperation, technological collaboration, and joint efforts in education and infrastructure.

President Pavel’s remarks underscore growing international resistance to protectionist policies and reignite calls for more equitable and inclusive global economic frameworks.

– AsaaseNews