Gambiaj.com – (TOKYO, Japan) – Japan and The Gambia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and working together on global challenges following a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
On August 20, Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Iwaya Takeshi, held a 15-minute discussion with Hon. Sering Modou Njie, The Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad.
Minister Iwaya described The Gambia as an “important friend” that shares Japan’s values of democracy and the rule of law. He expressed Tokyo’s commitment to further strengthening ties while addressing pressing international issues.
Minister Njie, in turn, thanked Japan for its warm welcome and praised Tokyo’s support for The Gambia through TICAD initiatives. He also underscored Banjul’s determination to expand cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral arenas.
During the talks, Japan pledged continued support for The Gambia’s food security, including the provision of agricultural equipment, food assistance, and the introduction of food drying technology backed by Japanese expertise.
Minister Iwaya also highlighted Japan’s role in supporting the digitalization of education and advancing public-private partnerships. Minister IWAYA stated that he would like to reaffirm the strengthening of bilateral relations and cooperation in addressing challenges facing the international community with the Gambia, an important friend that shares values and principles such as democracy and the rule of law.
Minister Njie welcomed these initiatives, voicing hopes for expanded cooperation in agriculture and health, increased Japanese investment, and Japan’s continued contribution to peace and stability in Africa.
Both ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to joint action on broader regional and international issues, including policies toward North Korea on nuclear, missile, and abductions matters, as well as the need for reform of the United Nations Security Council.
The meeting underscored Japan and The Gambia’s shared vision of strengthening development cooperation while playing an active role in advancing peace, stability, and reform in the global order.
