The embassy of the republic of China on Taiwan on 22 November 2011 organised a farewell reception for the outgoing Taiwanese ambassador to The Gambia H.E. Richard Shih.
The reception, held at the Coco Ocean Hotel in Bijilo, was attended by top diplomats in the country, senior government officials and business executives.
In his farewell speech, ambassador Shih said his three and a half year stay in the country was a great experience for him in all aspects.
He thanked the Government and people of The Gambia for the support and hospitality accorded him.
“I don’t like saying goodbye but hope to see you again sometime somewhere,” he told the gathering.
The outgoing Taiwanese ambassador said he enjoyed his stay, the harmony and peace in the country, adding that in The Gambia he was able to learn a lot about the country and her people.
Speaking at the farewell party on behalf of Dr Momodou Tangara, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians abroad, Mamburey Njie, Finance Minister, commended ambassador Shih for cementing the bilateral relations between the two countries.
“It is not a secret that over the years, the assistance received by the Government of the Republic of The Gambia from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has significantly complemented The Gambia’s efforts in developing its economy and human resource base for the ultimate achievement of the country’s development aspirations, “Hon Njie. said.
These are more notable in the areas of agriculture, health, education, and more infrastructures, which are key priorities of the Government of The Gambia, he added.
Minister Njie, on the behalf of President Jammeh, the Government and people of The Gambia, assured the outgoing Taiwanese ambassador of the West African nation’s continued support and collaboration.
“I assure you that we will vigorously continue to support Taiwan’s efforts at all levels, in achieving her aspiration,” he said.
He also extended special thanks to Ambassador Richard Shih for his immense contribution in consolidating the friendly and fruitful relations between the Government of the Republic of The Gambia and The Government of the Republic of China, during his tour of duty to The Gambia.
He added that the past three-and-a-half years have witnessed smooth and successful developments of the bilateral relations between The Gambia and Taiwan.
Tangara said having served honorably in The Gambia for years as distinguished diplomat, ambassador Shih will continue to advocate for the cause of The Gambia.
“The remarkable achievements he had made during his tenure of office in promoting and strengthening the good friendship and mutual beneficial development cooperation between The Gambia and Taiwan shall remain a source of inspiration to all of us in The Gambia,” he said.
The top Gambian diplomats added: “You will always be remembered for the invaluable services and selfless contribution you rendered in many different ways which have not only benefited our country but have also contributed towards enhancing lives of Gambians”.
The Nigerian High Commissioner to The Gambia and dean of the diplomat corps, Madam Asther Awudu, said they would miss a great colleague and friend.
“You have been a wonderful colleague and the community would miss you,” she said.
The wife of the ambassador, Mrs Shih, also salutes the Gambian people for making their stay in the country successful.
The Vice Chancellor of University of The Gambia (UTG) Professor Muhammed Kah presented a certificate of appreciation to ambassador Shih on behalf of the UTG for his immense support to the country’s higher institution of learning.
