By Haddy Touray
Gambian President, Adama Barrow has urged the newly appointed President of ECOWAS Commission, General Birame Diop, to uphold diplomacy and effective communication in working with the bloc’s heads of state to safeguard democracy in West Africa.
Barrow made the call when he received Diop and his delegation at State House in Banjul on Tuesday.
Diop visited The Gambia following his participation in the inaugural annual conference of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority.
According to a statement from the presidency, discussions focused on challenges facing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and key initiatives in security and stability, trade, energy, good governance and sustainable and inclusive development.
Barrow congratulated Diop on his appointment and assured him of his government’s support in carrying out his responsibilities.
Diop, who previously served as Senegal’s Minister of Armed Forces, expressed appreciation for Barrow’s remarks and for the hospitality extended to him by the Gambian people.
He also pledged to build on the work of his predecessor, Dr Omar Alieu Touray.
Barrow described as historic the fact that The Gambia had held the rotating presidency of ECOWAS before handing it over to Senegal during the regional bloc’s 50th anniversary period.
He said ECOWAS was well-organized and should remain firm in upholding democratic principles and advancing regional integration.
The Gambian president also acknowledged ECOWAS’ support in creating a favourable environment for democratic development in The Gambia and contributing to the country’s development process.
Diop had earlier commended Barrow for his continued support for Senegal and the wider ECOWAS community.