Gambia-Taiwan Relations to Enjoy Further Boost

Richard Shih, the new Taiwanese Ambassador to The Gambia, last Friday paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of the National Assembly, during which he reiterated his commitment and resolve to work towards further strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

The Gambia has long been a strong ally of Taiwan and continues to benefit from the generosity of the people of the Republic of China on Taiwan in many aspects, most specially in the area of Health and Agriculture. "It is my commitment, it is my promise and furthermore, it is my challenge, not only to relent on the existing cordial relationship between The Gambia and Taiwan but to deepen and extend that relationship for the benefit and common growth of both countries," said Ambassador Shih.

He was however quick to add that his challenge could not be achieved if he doesn't enjoy the existence, guidance and support of the National Assembly of The Gambia.

According to the Taiwanese diplomat, The Gambia and Taiwan are countries that all share the same idea of freedom and democracy.

Ambassador Shih also used the occasion to commend the government of The Gambia for the support rendered to his country in pursuit of international status. "It is my guarantee that I will work as closely as possible with the National Assembly in my tour of duty in this country. I look forward to working with all of you very closely for the benefit of the two countries.

"Am very confident that with your support during my tour of duty, I will greatly deepen the already cordial relationship that exists between our two countries," he added.

For her part, Mrs Fatoumatta Jahumpa-Ceesay, Speaker of the National Assembly, underscored her resolve to vigorously pursue the country's foreign policy. She assured Ambassador Shih of Gambia Government's continued support to Taiwan, most specially in their pursuit of international status.

"We have passed about four resolutions in this Assembly concerning the case of Taiwan in its quest to be admitted to the WHO, because we believe in the foreign policy of president Jammeh," she added.

According to Speaker Jahumpa-Ceesay, there is no reason why Taiwan should not be admitted to the World Health Organisation as they (Taiwan) have met all the criteria set by the world body.

She dilated on the cordial relationship that exists between the National Assembly of The Gambia and the Embassy of the Republic of China on Taiwan in The Gambia.

The Speaker called on Ambassador Shih to organise exchange visits between the two parliaments, and thus build and strengthen the relationship between the two Assemblies.

Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Majority Leader of the National Assembly, assured the new Taiwanese diplomat that the National Assembly would stand by Taiwan all the way in their pursuit of international status.