We
would like to welcome the European Union Commissioner for International
Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica, to The Gambia under the new
dispensation, to attend an EU-Gambia support initiative, where he is expected
to sign a financial package with the Gambia government today.
“We
will make sure that the new Gambian state can deliver as it should,” he has
said in a recent statement prior to his coming to The Gambia.
Such
a move is indicative of the level of solidarity and support the EU has extended
to nations that highly uphold democratic values, human rights and freedom of
expression.
Once
the government is seen to be upholding the values of real democracy and respect
for human rights, it will certainly attract essential support from various
development partners.
The
people of The Gambia need to see the dividends of democracy, as also emphasised
by the EU Commissioner, which demonstrates their readiness to help the new
government to take steps in respect of human rights and the rule of law, and
undertake other reforms in the new dispensation.
The
EU has been a long term development partner to The Gambia assisting the country
in various areas such roads, water, agriculture, and education.
“We
want to open a new chapter of our relations,” he said. “Actually, Europe wants to be a privileged
partner of this ‘New Gambia’.”
We
believe such a relationship will continue as our nations work for the good of
our people in the spirit of true democracy, human rights and good governance.
This
is also expected of other development partners as the new administration
continues to tread the path of good governance.
Once
again, we welcome the EU Commissioner to the Republic of The Gambia.
“A
true friend is someone who is always there during the ups and downs.”
Miley
Cyrus