However such decision will be determined further on “continued cooperation and collaboration” between the two.
It is vital to note that The Point previously reported that the two allies have been bickering in the shadows over the issue for the past three years until the matter was finally revealed in public.
Certain Gambian authorities complained overtly about “the wave of visa rejections, delays as well as … subjecting applicants using unnecessary technical barriers”.
But, The Point has now learnt that the “EU has decided that sanctions maybe eased through a lifting of the increased visa fees … cooperation on readmission. Thanks to the cooperation and effort of the Gambian authorities.”
Responding to this correspondent for a reason behind such a review, an EU official noted: “It is as a consequence of significant and sustained improvement in cooperation with regards to this particular issue … including return flights.”
Replying further on why the country was targeted in the first place, the official added: “The Gambia is one of our most reliable partners. However, this matter was due to insufficient cooperation regrading deportations”.
Consequently, following the entry into force of the Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/2459 and in accordance to Article 25a (6) of the Visa Code, “the Commission continued to assess The Gambia’s cooperation on readmission.”
It includes: "Assistance provided in the identification of Gambian nationals illegally staying on the territory of the Member States and the timely issuance of travel documents and the organisation of return operations…”
Even though the EU commended and acknowledged steps taken by The Gambian authorities over the issue, further efforts are required to ensure the full implementation of the readmission arrangement…”
During the course of 2022, it was reported that The Gambia faced the highest visa rejection rate of any country featuring in the Commission’s annual report”.
