Foreign Minister commissions new building for Ghana Consulate-General in Toronto

The Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Ministry has commissioned a new building for the Ghana Consulate-General at 8977 Woodbine Avenue, Markham, in Toronto, the capital city of the Canadian province of Ontario.

The Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who did the virtual commissioning on November 26, 2020 said the initiative is in line with the government’s policy of upgrading the infrastructure of Ghana Missions abroad.

“Today’s event is just one of several events held to commission new and refurbished properties in line with the Government’s policy of upgrading the infrastructure of Ghana Missions abroad.

“This is also consistent with President Akufo-Addo’s vision of a world class foreign service, which protects and promotes Ghana’s national interests on the global stage, including welfare of Ghanaians.”

According to Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the purpose of the new building was to provide a conducive working space for the staff of the Consulate-General.

“The decision to relocate from the former office building to the current location has brought relief to staff of the Consulate-General. The staff have had to endure difficult working conditions in a cramped and small office space, which was not conducive for efficient and effective service delivery as well as productivity. This new spacious three-storey building which was refurbished will enhance the work of the Consulate-General in the Province of Ontario”, she noted.

Touching on the online passport application system, Mrs. Ayorkor Botchwey said the recent installation of biometric  passport processing machines in Ottawa and Toronto will, undoubtedly, enhance consular service delivery to Ghanaians in Canada.

Meanwhile, she has urged the staff of the Consulate-General to institute a maintenance regime, which will help prolong the lifespan of the new edifice.