Officials say the discussions will focus on consolidating existing partnerships while exploring new areas of collaboration, underscoring the importance both nations attach to their long-standing relationship.
The two countries have enjoyed decades of strong relations, built on mutual benefit and cooperation. Each year, many Gambians benefit from Russian scholarship programmes, which have supported education and professional development across a range of fields.
Amid this enduring partnership, a steady stream of Russian tourists continues to visit The Gambia, further boosting the nation’s tourism industry.
Russia and The Gambia have stood side by side since the era of the Soviet Union, with many Gambian doctors having received their training in Russia.
A diplomatic source has hinted that, in light of the ongoing good relationship, the Russian government is planning to open a new embassy in Banjul. The source further noted that The Gambia has actively participated in the Russia–Africa Forum over the past two editions, with President Adama Barrow attending the inaugural forum held in Russia.
About Anatoly BASHKIN,
The Russian top diplomat, was born on 14th of May, 1961. He graduated from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) of the USSR Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1983). Fluent in English, French and Danish. In diplomatic service since 1983.
From 2004 to 2008, he was the Head of the Division of the General Secretariat (Department) of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2008-2012-Senior Adviser to the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the UN Office and Other International Organizations in Geneva (Switzerland).
From 2012 to 2017, he served as Head of Division, then Deputy Director of the Africa Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry. From September 18, 2017, to November 14, 2023, he served as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation in Cameroon
From January 29, 2018, to November 14, 2023, he served as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Equatorial Guinea on a concurrent basis
Since August 20, 2024, he is the Director of the Department of Africa at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
He is married and has two sons.
