The Gambia and Spain have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with discussions focusing on security, energy, agriculture, health, education and migration.

The commitment was renewed when The Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr Sering Modou Njie, received Maria Dolores Artola Casariego, the newly appointed Chargé d’Affaires of the Diplomatic Antenna of the Kingdom of Spain in The Gambia.

Minister Njie welcomed Artola Casariego to The Gambia and congratulated her on her appointment, while highlighting what he described as the longstanding and cordial relations between the two countries.

He recognised Spain’s contribution to The Gambia’s socio-economic development and its continued support for the country’s development priorities.

The Foreign Affairs Minister also expressed appreciation to the Spanish government for its continued cooperation, particularly in relation to the recognition and documentation of Gambian nationals residing in Spain.

He welcomed Spain’s cooperation in addressing issues affecting the Gambian community in the European country.

For her part, Artola Casariego conveyed greetings from the Ambassador of Spain to The Gambia and expressed her readiness to work closely with the Gambian government during her tenure.

She reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations, advancing ongoing programmes and exploring new areas of cooperation between the two countries.

Artola Casariego also pledged to work with the Gambian government and relevant institutions to build on the existing achievements in relations between The Gambia and Spain.

Minister Njie assured the Spanish diplomat of the full support of the Gambian government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to further strengthening its relationship with Spain.

By Adama Makasuba