President Adama Barrow has held talks with Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey at State House in Banjul, focusing on strengthening cooperation in key areas including migration, diplomacy and elections.

The meeting reviewed progress in bilateral engagement between The Gambia and the Commonwealth of Nations, while identifying new areas for collaboration.

Discussions also covered human rights, migration management and plans to establish a diplomatic academy.

President Barrow reaffirmed The Gambia’s support for the Commonwealth’s agenda, calling for stronger partnerships to drive economic growth.

He urged member states to promote

intra-Commonwealth trade, invest in knowledge-based development and explore innovative ways to finance programmes for women and young people.

On transitional justice, the President called for Commonwealth support towards reparations and technical assistance linked to the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission, stressing the need to sustain public confidence in the justice system.

He also outlined the government’s focus on youth empowerment through education and skills development, alongside infrastructure expansion.

According to the President, electricity access has reached around 90 percent nationwide, while road development continues to improve livelihoods.

The Gambia further reaffirmed its commitment to holding free, fair and transparent presidential elections, with support from the Commonwealth.

Secretary-General Botchwey, for her part, reiterated the Commonwealth’s continued support to The Gambia, particularly in strengthening democratic institutions and building national resilience as the country advances its democratic transition.