President John Evans Atta Mills has stated that the importance of the current Global development patterns makes one to recognize that development would not have lasting impact if countries continue to rely only on government to government aid.

In a passionate appeal to Japanese investors to see Ghana as an attractive investment destination, President Mills said it is through the private sector, from the smallest micro-enterprise to the largest multi-national businesses that makes growth takes place in society.

President Mills made these statements when he addressed an Investment forum in Tokyo, Japan.

He said Ghana is poised for action to take her rightful place in Global affairs but need the support to assist her in achieving its developmental goals.

Investors from both countries attended the Forum looking for the right areas to invest.

President Atta Mills said it is rather unfortunate that Africa has always been in the limelight for wrong reasons, wars, political instability, poverty, illiteracy, diseases, among others. However he said current trends on the continent is portraying a different picture as countries are taking measures to overcome their difficulties and the rich continent of Africa is now beginning to take its rightful place in Global affairs.

President Mills said what makes Ghana exceptional and an attractive investment destination is the stable political atmosphere, the existence of Export Processing Zones, generous and highly competitive investment incentives, a very competitive and fast developing financial services sector, accessibility to the Ecowas market of over 250 million people and an enhanced legal regulatory framework. This he said, makes Ghana an obvious choice for investors.

The Chairman of the Japanese External Trade Organisation, Yasuo Hayashi, praised Ghana for her stride at consolidating her democracy and making her a preferred investment destination.

He said exports from Japan to Ghana has increased over the years and thanked President Mills for creating a conducive investment climate in the country.

Mr Hayashi said products from Ghana to the international market are of high quality saying Japan will continue to open up its market for products from Ghana.

He stated that the Forum is very strategic for the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two countries.