By: Binta Jaiteh
The Gambian government on Friday inaugurated European Union Partnership Dialogue that provided a comprehensive framework for collaboration, encompassing a wide range of areas critical to sustainable development and inclusive growth.
The high-level event hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad was held at Atlantic Hotel in Banjul.
It was convened under the Samoa Agreement (Article 3) which would serve as a platform for strategic engagement between The Gambia and the European Union on areas of mutual interest.
The agreement will bring together key stakeholders from both sides to foster cooperation and partnership.
The Minister of Trade, Baboucarr Joof who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs underscored the significance of the meeting and also reaffirmed shared commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity.
“Our pursuit of deepening democratic governance and fostering sustainable peace remains at the core of our national agenda. Key pillars such as constitutional reform, transitional justice, and security sector reform continue to guide our democratic consolidation,” he said.
“The Gambia remains committed to the promotion and protection of human rights, credible and transparent electoral processes, and inclusive governance,” Joof added.
According to him, The Gambia stands firm in solidarity with ECOWAS in its mission to uphold democracy, peace, and stability in the sub-region. “As we look forward to the upcoming EU-AU Ministerial Meeting, The Gambia advocates for stronger synergies between Europe and Africa—particularly in addressing shared challenges such as conflict prevention, migration, climate change, and economic resilience.”
The Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS) Rita Larinjinha for her part says the Gambia has been the main beneficiary per capita of the EU solidarity in Africa. She continues to highlight EU’s involvement in Gambia since the first days after the election of President Barrow in December 2016.
“Our ambition for our partnership is made tangible by the work done by our EU Delegation on a daily basis with you here in the country. As we all remember, the Samoa Agreement was signed on November 15, 2023 and serves as the framework for European Union (EU) relations with the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific (OACPS) states,” she noted.
Other speakers included the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lang Yabou who buttressed on the partnership dialogue idea among other things.
