The National Theatre of Ghana, which symbolizes and witnesses the China-Ghana friendship, has become a gift from the Chinese government.

The news was disclosed during an official friendly visit to Ghana by H.E. Jia Qinglin, Chairman (Speaker) of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), from 18th to 20th April, 2007.

Six bilateral protocols, agreements and MOUs were signed when Mr. Jia paid a courtesy call to His Excellency John A. Kufuor, President of the Republic of Ghana. One of the agreements, On the Cancellation of Part of the Debt owed by the government of Ghana to China which was due at the end of 2005, has written off the construction cost of the National Theatre in early 90s, as well as some smaller projects.

The National Theatre plays an important role in promoting people-to-people cultural exchanges between the two countries. As time passes, some facilities and functions of the National Theatre could not satisfy the demand of the new century. The theatre was refurbished with a grant of USD 2 million, also from the Chinese government. The renovation was finished right before the Golden Jubilee of Independence, which not only keeps the original functions, but also employed new technology, new materials and installed new equipment.

With the renovated National Theatre, the friendship between peoples of China and Ghana will be enhanced to a new high.