The deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Tao Zhang, has said the Gambia’s economy remains strong and is growing at a rate of 6.5%.

Mr. Zhang is in Banjul for talks with President Adama Barrow on a host of issues including the economy and IMF loans.

Speaking to reporters after a closed door meeting with the President, Mr. Zhang said that the Gambia’s economic growth will remain for the rest of the year.

“We are also paying attention to the structural reforms which will provide the support for the economy on a more sustainable basis. We encouraged the authorities to continue the path leading to prosperity down the road.

 “Of course, there’s more that needs to be done… But we are confident that the good cooperation between the two sides, together with other development partners, can achieve the objectives envisaged by the government. We will do our best in our capacities to make sure that happens.”

Mr. Zhang congratulated the authorities and the people of the Gambia on achievements registered over the past two years.

President Adama Barrow said the presence of the IMF delegation “is proof that there is confidence in the economic management strategy of the government.”

Mr. Barrow said that the IMF’s presence in the country will also send a strong signal to Gambia’s partners to continue their support to government in this crucial transition programme.

He said he was committed to continue working with the IMF so that ordinary Gambians will feel the impact of political change in their everyday lives. He added that his government will continue to implement policies that strengthen social sectors of the country.

“The ordinary people do not understand the economic figures but real impacts on their lives. The private sector also plays key roles in employment creation. Hence my government’s priority is in reforms and strengthening institutions like the Central Bank so that they can effectively partake in sound macro-economic management of the country,” Mr. Barrow said.