Gambiaj.com – (Washington D.C., USA) – President Joe Biden on Thursday announced his intent to nominate Stephanie A. Miley to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of The Gambia. This nomination underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic relations with the West African nation.

Stephanie Miley, a distinguished career diplomat, brings a wealth of experience to the role. She is a Senior Foreign Service member of the class of Minister-Counselor and has held numerous high-profile positions within the U.S. Department of State. Most recently, Miley served as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where she played a crucial role in managing bilateral relations and addressing regional security issues.

Her career is marked by significant assignments that highlight her expertise in economic growth, political-military affairs, and regional stability. Miley served as a Senior Advisor in the Office of the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, and as Deputy Chief of Mission and Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, Morocco. Her tenure in Rabat is particularly notable for her leadership during a period of significant political transition in the region.

Miley’s other notable positions include Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, Senior Advisor in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, and Political Advisor to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe at NATO. She also served as Director of Policy and Regional Affairs in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, and as Director of the Office of Iraq and Afghanistan Affairs at the National Security Council. Her on-the-ground experience includes leading a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Tikrit, Iraq, contributing to reconstruction and stabilization efforts.

Her educational background is equally impressive, with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame, an M.A. from Stanford University, and an M.S. from the National War College, Fort McNair, Washington D.C. Miley is proficient in Spanish and French, languages that will undoubtedly assist her in her new diplomatic role.

This nomination comes at a time when the United States is seeking to deepen its engagement with African nations. The Gambia, a country known for its recent democratic reforms and strategic location in West Africa, is a key partner in this endeavor. Miley’s extensive experience in economic and political affairs, coupled with her deep understanding of regional dynamics, positions her well to enhance bilateral relations and support The Gambia’s development goals.

As the nomination moves forward, it will require confirmation by the U.S. Senate. If confirmed, Miley will succeed the current U.S. Ambassador to The Gambia, paving the way for continued collaboration and partnership between the two nations.