Ambassador Camara was accompanied by Consul General of the Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in France, Muhammad Magassy.
The meeting, organised by Mr Jabbi was attended by the Maire of Saint-Genies Bellevue, Gambians based in Toulouse and other parts of France as well as other French nationals.
The meeting discussed Mr Jabbi’s integration in France, his current work as well as plans and projects he is carrying out in The Gambia. The plight of Gambians in France and the way forward was also discussed.
Prior to the meeting, Mr Jabbi hosted Ambassador Camara, Consul General Magassy and French officials to a dinner at his residence.
In his remarks at the meeting, Bubacarr Jabbi thanked the six French families who accommodated, supported him during his Asylum and integration in France. He also thanked the Maire de Saint-Genies Bellevue and people for Toulouse for welcoming him to the city. He stated that they made him feel at home and safe.
Mr. Jabbi told Gambians in France that as long as they respect the laws of the country, they will continue to live without any problem.
He noted that the meeting could have attracted more Gambians, but observed that some undocumented Gambians in France were afraid of attending the meeting because of the presence of Ambassador Camara.
His Excellency Ebrima Ousman Camara, said it was first time visiting Toulouse and therefore thanked Mr Jabbi for making it happen and memorable.
He also thanked Maire de Saint-Genies Bellevue, her team and other French citizens who graced the occasion. He went on to thank all Gambians who attended the meeting.
He described the meeting as important to them, noting that it availed them the opportunity to know the challenges of Gambians in France. He said they will communicate their findings to the government of The Gambia.
Ambassador Camara alleviated the fear of undocumented Gambians in France especially those who avoided attending the meeting that the Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia in France ‘is not here to give them laisse-passer to be deported.’
He highlighted the need for them to sit and discuss their challenges as well as chart a way forward. “We are available to Gambians at all times and they can reach out to us at any time,” he further said.
He described France as one of the biggest financial support of the government of The Gambia and therefore thanked them on behalf of the government and people of The Gambia.
He also pointed out that the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is trying to encourage French speaking and learning, noting that getting books and other assistance will help in that drive.
He stated that Mr Jabbi, an advocate for regular migration was a role model even before travelling to France, adding that he is encouraged by his courage, commitment and hard work.
He added that Mr Jabbi has shown that one can accomplish a lot when you are out of your own country. He concluded by thanking all French citizens who supported Jabbi to be an example Gambians can emulate.
Sophie Lay, Maire de Saint-Genies Bellevue, expressed delight with being associated with the meeting. She highlighted that it is unacceptable that young people are dying all the time in the Mediterranean while risking their lives to Europe.
Stephane Sanz, formateur gros oeuvre who trained Mr Jabbi on various skills including construction, fire safety, among others described him as one of his most committed trainees.
