A high-level Gambian delegation has concluded a strategic visit to China, marking a decade since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries and reaffirming a shared commitment to deepen cooperation.

The delegation, led by Chief of Staff Alieu Loum, held a series of engagements with senior Chinese officials, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing development priorities aligned with The Gambia’s national agenda.

Central to discussions were efforts to enhance cooperation in key sectors, including infrastructure, energy, education, and human capital development.

Both sides explored opportunities under frameworks such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, with a particular emphasis on expanding scholarships, training programmes, and people-to-people exchanges.

During a meeting with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Miao Deyu, the Gambian delegation conveyed greetings from President Adama Barrow to President Xi Jinping, while expressing appreciation for China’s continued support to The Gambia’s development.

Talks also reviewed ongoing collaboration under major initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, with both sides stressing the need for timely implementation of projects and measurable impact.

In a separate engagement with the China International Development Cooperation Agency, discussions centred on strengthening development cooperation, including grant assistance and the implementation of small-scale, high-impact projects.

A key highlight of the visit was a proposal to establish a Foreign Service Academy in The Gambia, aimed at enhancing diplomatic capacity and institutional effectiveness.

The delegation also visited the China Foreign Affairs University to explore potential partnerships in this area.

The visit, which coincided with the 10th anniversary of renewed diplomatic relations, underscores growing ties between Banjul and Beijing, with both countries pledging to translate their cooperation into tangible development outcomes.

The Gambian government reiterated its commitment to the One China policy, while both sides expressed optimism about expanding collaboration in emerging sectors such as digital innovation and trade.

By Adama Makasuba