It is quite amazing that with over 40 years of fruitful diplomatic relations, both countries continue to be good allies especially in promoting people-to-people ties, building institutional capacities and in the field of education.
So far, the high political will demonstrated by both countries is a clear indication for the two countries that the best is even yet to come.
It was reported in yesterday’s edition of The Point that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr. Mamadou Tangara on Friday received in audience the out-going Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to The Gambia His Excellency Sr. Rubén García Abelenda, at his office in Banjul.
The two countries have brotherly bilateral relations and Cuba has been supporting The Gambia in various areas especially the health sector, promoting and strengthening of quality health care delivery in our various health facilities and communities.
We must acknowledge the fact that Cuban doctors in the country are doing extremely well especially in the management of serious ailments at our various health facilities. This team of doctors, graduates and technicians need to be commended for their dedication in contribution to the country's health care service.
On the other side, a good number of Gambian doctors are pursuing degree courses in various specialties in the oldest Antillean archipelago.
Yes, The Gambia and Cuba may be thousands of miles away, but the level of cooperation and solidarity shown over the years speaks volumes and one to embrace in promoting south-south cooperation.
What is even fascinating is the fact that the two nations continue to collaborate and defend genuine causes towards global peace, unity and to see a better world for all. This is indeed commendable.
We must also recognise that the hospitality of Gambians and open nature of our society has also helped in making our brothers from the Antilles feel at home.
The Gambia in the past stood in solidarity with Cubans during its fight against the blockade imposed by the US for six decades. This clearly demonstrates that the two countries have been very close even during the height of the US blockage.
Therefore, we cannot end without heaping praises on the outgoing His Excellency Sr. Rubén García Abelenda for his tireless effort in elevating the already existing relations to another height. Once again, thank you for your tireless effort ----- outgoing Cuban ambassador.