By: Isatou Sarr
The Gambian Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Sering Modou Njie, on Thursday received Senegal’s Secretary of State for Senegalese Abroad, Amadou Cherif Diouf, at his office in Banjul, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary at the ministry, Ambassador Lang Yabou, and Director Swaibou Barry. Mr. Diouf, who is on a working visit to The Gambia, was accompanied by Senegal’s High Commissioner to The Gambia, Mariame Sy.
According to officials, discussions centred on the longstanding bilateral relations between The Gambia and Senegal, with particular focus on migration management, consular affairs and the welfare of citizens residing in both countries.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on migration-related matters and enhancing institutional collaboration for the mutual benefit of their nationals.
As part of his visit, Mr. Diouf is scheduled to travel to Farafenni on 20 February to meet members of the Senegalese community residing there.
Later on Thursday, the Senegalese official paid a courtesy call on Vice President Muhammed B.S. Jallow at the State House.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Mr. Diouf said discussions with the Vice President covered the welfare of Senegalese nationals, border-related challenges and the implementation of the 2024 Gambia-Senegal bilateral agreement.
Vice President Jallow reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to the agreement and pledged continued cooperation.
Mr. Diouf also highlighted the Spanish Migration Programme, noting that 84 per cent of Senegalese participants have returned home, while more than 1,000 are expected to travel to Spain this year. He expressed Senegal’s readiness to work closely with the Gambian authorities on the initiative.
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