In a verified July 1 social media statement, Risch stated: “Ghana should honor commitments to US entities before subsidizing larger Chinese obligations,” referencing outstanding bilateral financial arrangements.

The remarks coincide with Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson’s Beijing discussions with Chinese creditors.

Forson characterized the talks as “constructive steps toward resolving inherited debt restructuring,” according to ministry communiqués released July 3.

Concurrently, US officials cited a 21% student visa overstay rate exceeding acceptable thresholds during bilateral immigration talks.

Deputy Head of Mission Rolf Olson separately reaffirmed US-Ghana partnership commitments at a July 4 Accra reception, emphasizing private sector-driven economic collaboration under the Mahama administration’s foreign policy framework.

Instead of a trip to D.C., Ghana’s foreign minister should focus on honoring his government’s commitments to repay U.S. companies and the American taxpayers. We cannot keep subsidizing Ghana while it continues paying far larger debts to China. https://t.co/vc5314Ptv7

— Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman (@SenateForeign) July 1, 2025