The Government of Ghana has formally notified the Government of Togo of its decision to seek international arbitration to delimit the maritime boundary between the two countries under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The decision follows nearly eight years of bilateral negotiations that have failed to produce an agreed maritime boundary, according to a statement issued by Presidency Communications on Friday.
Government explained that the move to international arbitration is intended to prevent further incidents that have created tensions between institutions of the two neighbouring states, while ensuring a peaceful and rules-based resolution to the dispute.
“Ghana has taken this step in order to avoid an escalation of incidents and to promote an amicable resolution,” the statement said, adding that the action is also aimed at preserving the long-standing cordial relations between Ghana and Togo.
International arbitration under UNCLOS provides a recognised legal framework for resolving maritime boundary disputes between coastal states, allowing parties to seek a binding decision in accordance with international law.
The statement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications.
Ghana’s recourse to arbitration marks a significant step in addressing the maritime boundary issue through peaceful legal means, reinforcing its commitment to diplomacy, international law, and regional stability in West Africa.