The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad on Tuesday officially introduced its newly appointed Minister, Sering Modou Njie, in a high-level breakfast meeting with members of the diplomatic and consular corps, as well as representatives of international organizations.
The event, held at the Atlantic Prime Hotel in Banjul, brought together key figures from the Gambia government, including the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dawda A. Jallow, and the Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting, Ismaila Ceesay, alongside ambassadors, consuls and international partners, in a show of diplomatic solidarity and cooperation.
In his first official engagement with the diplomatic community, Minister Njie delivered a comprehensive address outlining his vision for The Gambia’s foreign service. He emphasised regional integration, multilateral cooperation, economic diplomacy, peace and security and the safeguarding of Gambian citizens abroad among others as top priorities during his tenure.
“I am honoured to assume this important role at a critical time in our nation’s journey. My Ministry stands ready to deepen our partnerships and work closely with your missions to advance mutual goals,” said Minister Njie.
The foreign Minister also used the occasion to convey appreciation to His Excellency, President Adama Barrow for the trust and confidence reposed in him, and also extended gratitude on behalf of the government and people of The Gambia to all the partners.
The event was opened with welcoming remarks from Ambassador Lang Yabou, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, who reaffirmed the Ministry’s openness and commitment to strong diplomatic engagement, highlighting the importance of partnership.
‘‘Today, with your complementary support as partners, The Gambia is a beacon of hope when it comes to consolidation of democracy, rule of law, human rights, peacebuilding and role in international peace and security in a region characterised by huge challenges requiring our collective action to overcome them,” Ambassador Yabou said.
“It is, therefore, our request that, as we navigate the path toward increased national transformation, democratic consolidation and sustainable development, we remain confident that the continued partnership and solidarity of the international community will be further sustained and expanded to support us realize our collective aspirations for a peaceful, prosperous, and just society.’’
Justice Minister Dawda A. Jallow later provided a detailed update on the ongoing constitutional reform process, particularly the 2024 Draft Constitution. This was followed by an update from the Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, on key government programmes and national priorities.
The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing for fruitful dialogue and reflections from the diplomatic corps who expressed their appreciation for the initiative taken by Foreign Minister Njie to meet them.
In his closing remarks, Permanent Secretary Lang Yabou, on behalf of Minister Njie and staff of the Ministry, extended sincere gratitude to all attendees for honouring the invitation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to open, respectful, and impactful international cooperation under the leadership of Minister Sering Modou Njie.
