Gambia, India strengthen bilateral ties for economic growth

President Adama Barrow of The Gambia and H.E. Dinkar Asthana, High Commissioner of India to The Gambia, reiterated their commitment to further expand their partnership in the spirit of South-South cooperation.

The meeting covered various aspects of The Gambia-India bilateral and multilateral relations, including capacity building, trade, and economic relationships.

President Barrow expressed his gratitude to the Indian Government for their continuous support in capacity building for Gambian civil servants and the growth of the economy. The bilateral trade between the two countries has been steadily increasing, and India remains committed to supporting The Gambia’s development initiatives.

The Gambia benefits from India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme, which encourages the export of commodities to India. This scheme facilitates greater market access for Gambian products in India, strengthening bilateral trade.

Furthermore, India has provided development assistance to The Gambia, focusing on building productive capacities, strengthening institutions, and developing infrastructure and technical expertise for long-term sustainability. Developmental projects in construction, agriculture, water, and power have received assistance from India.

The Gambia and India have enjoyed warm and friendly relations since gaining independence in 1965 and establishing diplomatic ties in the same year. Their commitment to mutual development and cooperation underscores the strength of their longstanding relationship.

The meeting between President Barrow and High Commissioner Asthana marks a significant step towards enhancing The Gambia-India bilateral relations. Both sides are optimistic about future collaboration and the progress and prosperity it will bring to their respective nations.