Distinguished representatives from various Ministries and Agencies of both The Gambia and Senegal were present, including officials from the Ministries of Finance and Trade, Port Authority, Transport Union, Chambers of Commerce, the Gambia High Commission in Dakar, and the Senegalo-Gambia Secretariat.
Dr Mbaye Njie, the Director General of Senegalese Customs, extended a warm welcome to the Gambian delegates, highlighting the long-standing friendship between the two nations. He reiterated his commitment to upholding the bilateral agreements between the two countries.
In his address, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe emphasised the need for both administrations to intensify their efforts in combating illicit trade and smuggling. He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance along porous borders through regular patrols, in addition to adhering to approved trade routes.
CG Darboe encouraged officials to actively participate in bilateral discussions, sharing their experiences and challenges to generate actionable recommendations. He assured full support for the implementation of any recommendations arising from the meeting.
Furthermore, CG Darboe highlighted how the implementation of SIGMAT could enhance cross-border trade management, strengthening the Senegambian cooperation in trade and facilitating the free movement of goods and people while bolstering national security.
The two Director Generals concluded the opening session by expressing gratitude to the governments of The Gambia and Senegal, as well as to all participants for their contributions and commitment to enhancing the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
