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BANJUL, 14th August 2025: On Tuesday, 12th August 2025, the Hon. Minister Njie held a series of high-level engagements with representatives of key diplomatic and development partners, reaffirming the Gambia Government’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation. 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐇.𝐄. 𝐌𝐫. 𝐃𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐯, 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 The Minister welcomed Ambassador Kuracov and discussed avenues to deepen bilateral relations between The Gambia and the Russian Federation. Areas of discussion included trade and investment opportunities, cultural exchanges, and potential collaboration in education and technical training. Both parties expressed their mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation for the benefit of their peoples, with the Ambassador reiterating Russia’s commitment to establishing an embassy in The Gambia. 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐇.𝐄. 𝐌𝐬. 𝐍𝐚𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐟𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞, 𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐅 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 In discussions with Ms. Shafique, the Minister underscored the Government’s priority on advancing child rights, improving access to quality education, and strengthening health services for children and adolescents. The meeting also explored joint strategies for tackling malnutrition, expanding early childhood development programs, and enhancing child protection frameworks. Both sides reaffirmed their shared vision of ensuring that every child can grow up healthy, educated, and safe, and agreed to continue close collaboration on ongoing and future UNICEF-supported initiatives. 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐇.𝐄. 𝐌𝐫. 𝐎𝐛𝐚 𝐅𝐚𝐡𝐢𝐫 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫, 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐮̈𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐲𝐞 The Minister and Ambassador Turker reviewed the longstanding relations between the two nations, highlighting cooperation in trade, capacity building, and cultural exchange. Discussions included potential new partnerships in infrastructure development, vocational training, and tourism promotion. Both sides emphasized the importance of building on the solid foundation of mutual respect and shared interests. The day’s engagements reflected the Government’s active diplomacy and strong partnerships with both bilateral and multilateral actors, aimed at advancing national development priorities and fostering mutually beneficial international relations.

His Excellency Mr. Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, officially opened the Sahel Governance Forum at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, a landmark event bringing together leaders, experts, civil society, and international partners to chart a new path for governance, peace, and regional cooperation in the Sahel. In his keynote address, President Barrow called for bold actions: “Let this Forum be a catalyst for change… where governance works for all, where trust is restored, and every citizen feels seen, heard, and valued.” Hon. Sering Modou Njie, Minister of Foreign Affairs, in his intervention welcomed the delegates and pointed out the importance the Gambia attached to peace and development in the Sahel and Africa in general. “The Gambia stands as a symbol of hopeful transition and shared commitment for future generations.” Through this forum, we reaffirm our collective belief that only through inclusive, homegrown, and context-responsive solutions, can the region unlocks its full potential and ensure no one is left behind, asserted Hon Njie. Ms. Fatou Kinneh Jobe, Permanent Secretary II at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, welcomed the delegates on behalf of the Government of The Gambia and emphasized the importance of inclusive governance: “The Gambia’s experience shows that peaceful change, grounded in respect and determination, is possible when we work together.” The Forum is co-hosted by the Government of The Gambia in partnership with UNDP, UNOWAS, International IDEA, and the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation. It includes the launch of the Future of Governance in the Sahel report and continues through 31 July 2025. #SahelGovernanceForum #MOFAGambia #PresidentAdamaBarrow #RegionalGovernance #Peace #Inclusion #Trust #Banjul2025

The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, received his Gambian counterpart, Mr. Sering Modou Njie, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, at the Quai d’Orsay on Thursday, July 24, 2025. This first meeting between the two ministers highlighted the excellence of Franco-Gambian relations, which have been experiencing a new momentum since the return to democracy in The Gambia in 2017. The ministers jointly reiterated our shared views on international issues and the shared commitment of France and The Gambia to peace, democracy, the fight against climate change, and the preservation of the oceans. They discussed France’s concrete support for The Gambia since 2018, particularly through projects in the areas of water, agriculture, biodiversity and resource mobilization. The ministers also welcomed the dynamism of the Alliance Française of Banjul, the strengthening of France’s economic presence in the country, and the deepening of our trade relations. Both Ministers welcomed the outcomes of their discussions and reaffirmed their determination to continue working together to deepen the friendship and cooperation between their two nations for the mutual benefit of their peoples.

The Gambia hosted the Rabat Process Thematic Meeting on “Bridging the Gaps: Advancing Cooperation on Missing Migrants in the Rabat Process Region.” Co-chaired by The Gambia and Switzerland, the event was supported by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The meeting brought together delegations from 28 partner countries, international organizations, and technical experts. Held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Banjul, the two-day meeting marked a significant milestone as the first in-person gathering of the Network of National Focal Points (NFPs) for Missing Migrants, established under the Rabat Process framework. Speaking on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, Honorable Abdoulie Sanyang, Minister of Interior, addressed the plenary and emphasized the urgency of tackling irregular migration and addressing the challenges associated with missing migrants. He reaffirmed The Gambia’s strong commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable migration governance. Throughout the two days, participants explored the humanitarian impact of migrant disappearances, the importance of family engagement, and the need for strengthened legal frameworks and operational capacity. Key highlights included: Presentations from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on the Missing Migrants Project, underscoring the critical need for data and informed prevention strategies; Interactive sessions on improving search, identification, and cross-border coordination; Peer learning on how to support families and uphold the dignity and rights of missing persons. The meeting also celebrated a key achievement: for the first time, National Focal Points from several Rabat Process partner countries met in person to deepen collaboration and lay the groundwork for a stronger, more operational network. In his closing remarks on day two, Ambassador Lang Yabou, PS 1 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, extended heartfelt thanks to participants, partners, and support staff, and called for sustained action: “We leave here not with despair, but with a clear roadmap for action. Let us honour the memory of the missing by strengthening our systems, supporting families, and working together to prevent further tragedies.” The Gambia also extended its gratitude to Switzerland, Nigeria (as current Chair of the Rabat Process), and institutional partners including ICRC, ICMPD, IOM, ECOWAS, and the EU Delegation. The Government of The Gambia reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to collaborating with regional and international partners to uphold the dignity and rights of migrants throughout their journey. It emphasized that no migrant should be left unaccounted for and that affected families must be treated with dignity and provided with the necessary support.

On Friday, 11th July 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad bid a warm and heartfelt farewell to its outgoing Minister, Honorable Dr. Mamadou Tangara. The occasion marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the Ministry’s history, and the beginning of a legacy that will long be remembered. In a gathering filled with gratitude and emotion, Permanent Secretary I, Ambassador Lang Yabou, spoke on behalf of the entire staff in expressing deep appreciation to Dr. Tangara for his unwavering commitment and exemplary leadership. “The Ministry was truly blessed to have had you at the helm,” he remarked. “We are grateful for your service, and for the vision and integrity with which you led us.” Ambassador Yabou also offered prayers for Dr. Tangara’s continued success, assuring him that the Ministry remains committed to upholding the values and standards he instilled. Permanent Secretary II, Ms. Fatou Kinneh Jobe, echoed these sentiments, describing her time working alongside Dr. Tangara as an honor and a privilege. “You have not only represented The Gambia, you have championed it, elevating our voice on the global stage and reinforcing our country’s diplomatic presence with strength, grace, and wisdom.” In his remarks, Dr. Tangara extended his heartfelt gratitude to the PS’s, Directors and junior staff of the Ministry. He praised their professionalism, dedication, and support throughout his tenure, emphasizing that any success achieved was a collective accomplishment. With humility and warmth, he encouraged them to continue striving for excellence in serving the nation and representing The Gambia with pride and dignity. The farewell concluded on a joyous note, as Dr. Tangara was invited to cut a farewell cake and received thoughtful gifts from staff, as symbols of affection, admiration, and appreciation for his years of distinguished service.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad held a formal ceremony to welcome the newly appointed Honourable Minister, His Excellency Sering Modou Njie, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Banjul. The ceremony was opened by Permanent Secretary I, Ambassador Lang Yabou, who delivered warm welcoming remarks, and congratulated Hon. Minister Njie on his appointment. He assured the Minister of the full support and cooperation of the Ministry’s staff as he undertakes his new role. Ambassador Yabou also acknowledged the continuous support the Honorable Minister has previously extended to the Ministry, emphasizing his commitment to diplomacy and national service. PS Yabou alluded to the commitment and dedication of MoFA staff to their work and wished Hon. Njie a successful tenure in office. Speaking at the event, the outgoing Minister, Hon. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, welcomed his successor and congratulated him on his appointment. He described the new Minister as a dedicated and hardworking public servant and encouraged the staff and Cabinet to fully support him in carrying out the Ministry’s important mandate. The newly appointed Minister, Hon. Sering Modou Njie, expressed sincere appreciation for the warm welcome. He conveyed greetings from His Excellency, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, and expressed gratitude to the leadership and staff of the Ministry for their continued commitment in advancing The Gambia’s foreign policy and promoting the country’s image on the global stage. Hon. Njie reaffirmed his commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to further strengthen The Gambia’s diplomatic relations and international presence. He also extended his congratulations to the outgoing Minister on his recent appointment as the African Union Special Representative in Mali and the Sahel. He thanked him for his exemplary service, support, and dedication during his tenure. Following the ceremony, Hon. Njie held individual meetings with all the Directors and subsequently met with staff under each Directorate. These introductory meetings provided an opportunity for engagement, sharing of ideas, and reaffirming the collaborative spirit required to fulfill the Ministry’s mandate. The Ministry looks forward to continued progress under the leadership of Honorable Njie as it works to uphold The Gambia’s interests both at home and abroad.