Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Tao Zhang said Tuesday at a public lecture in Banjul that the regional economic integration and cooperation will strengthen The Gambia’s position externally and build the strength of its currency Dalasi.

Zhang reaffirmed The Gambia has grounds for optimism about its economic outlook, adding that “exports, private capital inflows, and remittances from Gambians working abroad are rebounding and are likely to increase further with regional integration.

This will help build foreign exchange reserves and strengthen confidence in the Dalasi.”

He hailed The Gambia for ratifying Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as well as the construction of Senegambia Bridge which are connecting markets together.

“It is a symbol of The Gambia’s efforts to deepen economic ties to the rest of the region. The bridge is symbolizing the role of enhanced trade and connectivity in building prosperity though domestic policy efforts will be needed to build this pathway,” he said.

Xinhua News