by Innocent Onoh
Time was when the leaders of two neighbouring West African countries, Senegal and The Gambia, tried to merge the countries and form one nation to be known as Sene-Gambia. Although the move was short-lived, it pointed to the possibilities for the future.
Now, the new Gambian President, Adama Barrow, has stressed deep commitment of his country to the age-long friendship with its closest neighbour, Senegal, for the rapid development of the two countries. He expressed the sentiments while receiving the Senegalese Foreign Minister, Sidiki Kaba, in Banjul.
President Barrow expressed gratitude to the Senegalese president and his people for their contribution in effecting the ouster of his predecessor and making change and freedom possible in The Gambia. He commended the positive role President Sall has continued to play in building confidence and strengthening their cordial relationship.
President Barrow said he and his Senegalese counterpart would continue to consult one another and engage in dialogue over issues. He hoped that both countries would keep working towards being a model of regional integration, by facilitating free trade across their borders.
The Senegalese Foreign Minister, Sidiki Kaba, had delivered a special message to President Barrow, reiterating his President’s commitment to the spirit of friendliness and good neighbourliness between The Gambia and Senegal. The message also included a formal introduction of Foreign Minister Kaba to the new Gambian leader.
Mr.Kaba, who used to serve as Senegal’s Justice Minister, was appointed Foreign Minister last month.
Mr.Kaba and President Barrow discussed a series of bilateral issues to further cement the friendly ties between the two countries.
Last March, The Gambia and Senegal signed several cooperation agreements to promote trade, fisheries, peace and security for the mutual benefit of the Gambian and Senegalese people.
