By Awa Macalo
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of External Affairs of India geared towards developing a political cohesive environment to enhance trade and economic growth in both countries.
During the signing ceremony in Banjul Monday, the Indian External Affairs minister, Mr V. Muraleedharan, said despite the limitations brought forward by Covid-19, bilateral engagements are continued virtually and expressed delight that now the pandemic is abating, albeit slightly.
“India could bring in its strength in the priority areas of interest to The Gambia including health, education, ICT, e-governance, agriculture, food processing, defence and security, tourism and fisheries sectors.”
Mr Muraleedharan further explained that development partnership is essential with India being part of an iconic projects in The Gambia. “The concessional lines of credit of around USD115 million extended by India to the Gambia in the field of agriculture and irrigation, infrastructure and construction has been fruitfully utilized for various projects such as the construction of the National Assembly building, supply of tractors, electricity expansion, water pipe networks among other things,” he said.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr Mamadou Tangara, expressed gratitude for the historic visit of Minister Muraleedhana, adding that their discussions and signing of the MoU centered on areas of cooperation, including shared conviction for a better health system, quality education for youth and infrastructural development.
