Taiwan's support to the socio-economic advancement of The Gambia is showing no sign of abating, as the Taiwanese ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Richard Shih, within the space of twenty-four hours, returned to the State House on Tuesday to present yet another huge sum of money to the Gambia government.
This time, the chief Taiwanese diplomat was received by the new Secretary-General and Head of Civil Service, Dr Njugo Bah, on behalf of government. H.E. Richard Shih presented a cheque for D15,000,000 (US$500,000) to Dr Bah.
The money, according to officials, is meant to support The Gambia government’s budgetary support for youth employment generation.
Ambassador Richard Shih also extended words of solidarity to the flood victims in the country, saying in August 2009, President Jammeh made a handsome donation in support of families affected by typhoon in Taiwan.
"We are very happy and appreciative of the kind donation we received from His Excellency Sheikh Professor Dr Alhaji Yahya Jammeh last year," he said. Receiving the cheque on behalf of the Government and President of The Gambia, Dr Bah expressed government's appreciation for the gesture and described it as "timely".
He recalled it was the third time the Taiwanese government through its embassy in Banjul was coming up to support youth employment generation in the country. He as well as spoke on the longstanding cordial relationship between Banjul and Taipei, saying the two countries are always supportive of each other in many sectors, which has yielded dividends for both parties and contributed positively in the development drive of The Gambia.
"This is yet another manifestation of that longstanding tie and partnership. We wish to assure you that the money will be used for its intended purpose and will be utilised wisely and the youth-folk will benefit greatly," he assured.
The presentation ceremony was chaired by Ebrima Camara, secretary to Cabinet.
Ambassador Shih was accompanied to State House by Mr Tom Lee, first secretary at the Embassy of the Republic of China on Taiwan in Banjul.
