Ambassador extols Gambia, Bissau relations

Luis Domingos Camara de Barros made this disclosure during activities marking the former Portuguese Colony’s 51st independence celebration held on Friday 4th October 2024 at Kombo Beach Hotel.

“The multifaceted ties between the two countries have witnessed constant growth during this half century, characterized by friendship, solidarity, fraternity, goodwill, mutual respect and understanding,” Ambassador Luis stated.

Ambassador Camara de Barros recalled that the past four years have been particularly remarkable in terms of upholding democracy and individual freedoms as outlined in their constitution, thus providing equal opportunities for all Guinean citizens.

He also spoke about the implementation of significant infrastructure programmes and introducing administrative and economic reforms aimed at driving economic growth in the coming years.

“Over the past four years, the relations between the two countries have intensified and there have been successive high-level visits between the authorities of both countries. In July of this year in Bissau, a new era in bilateral cooperation was witnessed with the holding of the 4th Joint Cooperation Commission. During this event, agreements and Memorandums were signed in the economic, social, political, and internal security areas.” he outlined.

In addition, Ambassador Camara de Barros further expressed his country's commitment to enhancing relations, highlighting the upcoming signing of the first-ever agreement to establish a tripartite trade and transit mechanism involving the governments of The Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau later this year.

Furthermore, he outlined the significance of celebrating the independence and centenary of Amilcar Cabral, the distinguished founder of the Republics of Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde, which he said commenced on September 12, 2024 in Bissau and will continue until the end of this year due to its historical importance.

“Bissau, where Cabral was born in the forests of Bóe, witnessed the birth of a new Guinea-Bissau as a free country over 51 years ago, following more than five centuries of colonisation. The country faced numerous challenges at the beginning of its independence, including overcoming the trauma of the liberation struggle.”

He thus thanked the government and people of the Gambia for the warm hospitality accorded to Bissau Guineans in the country.

"None of my people feel like foreigners in The Gambia. This is because we are all related in one way or another. I'm glad that the people of The Gambia are open and peaceful towards my citizens."