President Adama Barrow has urged the new President of the ECOWAS Commission, General Birame Diop, to uphold diplomacy, effective communication and democratic principles as he takes on the leadership of the regional bloc.

President Barrow made the call when he received General Diop and his delegation at State House in Banjul.

General Diop was in The Gambia following his participation in the inaugural annual conference of the ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority.

During the meeting, discussions focused on challenges facing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and key initiatives in security and stability, trade, energy, good governance and sustainable and inclusive development.

President Barrow congratulated General Diop on his appointment and assured him of The Gambia government’s full support as he begins his mandate.

He encouraged the new ECOWAS Commission president to work closely with regional Heads of State through diplomacy and effective communication to help safeguard democracy within the bloc.

President Barrow also reflected on The Gambia’s role in the history of ECOWAS, noting the recent transition of the bloc’s presidency from The Gambia to Senegal.

“It is historic that The Gambia held the Presidency of ECOWAS and handed it over to Senegal in the fifty years of ECOWAS’ existence,” President Barrow said.

The Gambian leader said ECOWAS was well organised and must remain firm in upholding democratic principles and regional integration.

He also acknowledged the role of ECOWAS in supporting The Gambia’s democratic environment and development.

General Diop thanked President Barrow for his remarks and expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation by the Gambian people.

He also pledged to build on the work of his predecessor, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, as he takes forward the agenda of the regional organisation.

By Adama Makasuba