Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the historic ties between The Gambia and Senegal, urging officials from both nations to work collaboratively towards deeper integration and sustained progress. He made these remarks on Friday during a courtesy visit from Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko at the State House.

President Barrow used the occasion to convey his salutations to Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, emphasizing the unique relationship between the two nations, rooted in shared values, cultures, and languages. “We should be the shining examples for African integration and Pan-Africanism by working to ease movements at our border communities,” he said. He highlighted the importance of fostering closer ties that build on these shared values and called for collaborative efforts to solidify achievements toward integration.

The Prime Minister’s visit coincided with the Senegambia Commission Summit and The Gambia-Senegal Economic, Trade, and Investment Forum, key platforms aimed at enhancing cooperation and strengthening trade partnerships between the two nations. These initiatives align with The Gambia’s strategic vision for investment and economic diversification.

Speaking to the press, Prime Minister Sonko underscored the significance of fostering closer relations between the two sister countries. He emphasized resolving border issues and advancing shared interests in peace, security, trade, and transportation. “The relationship between Senegal and The Gambia must remain a beacon of regional unity and cooperation,” Sonko noted.

The Vice President of The Gambia, H.E. Muhammed B.S. Jallow, also echoed the importance of bolstering trade ties. He joined ministerial delegations from both countries in accompanying Prime Minister Sonko to the State House meeting, where discussions reinforced the shared commitment to mutual progress.

The economic forum highlighted opportunities to deepen collaboration in trade and investment, with a focus on creating a robust partnership that drives economic growth and addresses pressing cross-border challenges.

The call for enhanced integration comes as The Gambia and Senegal continue to be viewed as a model for bilateral cooperation in West Africa. Their efforts to strengthen trade, ease border restrictions, and collaborate on security issues have underscored the vital role such partnerships play in promoting regional stability and development.

With the firm backing of their leaders, the road ahead for Senegal-Gambia relations promises to reflect the unity and shared aspirations of their people, serving as a template for Pan-African integration.