The Gambian government has signed a grant assistance agreement worth 100 million Chinese yuan ($14m; £11m) with China, reinforcing diplomatic and development ties between the two countries.

Officials say the funding will support a range of small-scale projects aligned with The Gambia’s national development priorities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Foreign Affairs Minister, Sering Modou Njie, thanked China for what he described as its continued support and solidarity with The Gambia.

He said the grant reflected “practical, results-oriented cooperation” and would contribute to socio-economic development and improved livelihoods.

Mr Njie said China had been a long-standing development partner, citing cooperation in areas including infrastructure, health, agriculture, capacity building and humanitarian assistance.

He added that the agreement was in line with a shared commitment to deepen cooperation based on mutual respect and common development goals.

The minister also reaffirmed The Gambia’s support for the one-China policy, backing Beijing’s position on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

China’s ambassador to The Gambia, Liu Jin, said Beijing would continue to support the country’s development efforts.

He emphasised the importance of South–South cooperation and people-centred initiatives designed to deliver tangible benefits to local communities.

The Gambian government said it would ensure the transparent and timely implementation of the grant to maximise its impact.

The agreement underscores what both sides describe as a long-standing friendship and a shared commitment to cooperation for development and prosperity.

By Adama Makasuba