Gambiaj.com – (Bissau, Guinea-Bissau) – Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia on Monday signed a landmark security cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and fostering peace and stability between the two West African nations.

The agreement, signed by Guinea-Bissau’s Security Minister Botche Candé and his Gambian counterpart Abdoulie Sanyang, took place in the presence of Presidents Umaro Sissoco Embaló and Adama Barrow during the Gambian leader’s two-day state visit to Bissau.

Beyond security, both countries pledged to accelerate the implementation of previously signed agreements covering defense, justice, higher education, commerce, tourism, fisheries, agriculture, transport, culture, and the media.

These commitments were first adopted at the Fourth Joint Commission meeting held in Bissau in July 2024.

Speaking after the signing, President Embaló emphasized the potential for joint development projects, including the creation of cross-border industrial zones focused on cashew processing and agro-industries.

He highlighted the need for shared infrastructure and environmental cooperation, particularly in coastal restoration and mangrove reforestation.

President Barrow reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable use of natural resources. He described the agreement as a milestone in transforming the historical friendship between the two nations into a strategic partnership that benefits their peoples.

As part of the visit, Barrow was awarded the Amílcar Cabral National Order Medal in recognition of his efforts to strengthen cooperation.

He later visited the Amura Mausoleum to pay tribute to Amílcar Cabral and other heroes of Guinea-Bissau’s liberation struggle.

The new security cooperation agreement and commitment to broadened implementation mark a significant step in deepening bilateral relations, with both leaders stressing that peace, stability, and economic development must go hand in hand.