Gambia’s foreign minister, Mamadou Tangara, met his Beninese counterpart during a visit to Cotonou aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
The Beninese government, through its Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, received his Gambian counterpart, Mamadou Tangara, on Tuesday 3 December, as part of bilateral consultations between Cotonou and Banjul.
The meeting allowed the two ministers to discuss issues of common interest, particularly the regional and international challenges facing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
According to a report by the Beninese government, the talks revealed a convergence of views between the two diplomatic chieftains on a number of issues.
The Gambian head of diplomacy reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Benin.
“On his first visit to Benin, Tangara said he was impressed by the progress made in the country’s development, praising in particular the modernisation of infrastructure and the fight led by President Patrice Talon for the repatriation of royal treasures.
This approach strengthens the knowledge of Benin’s history and culture, which is essential for development, said the Gambian minister, adding that these actions will have a lasting impact for future generations.
Delivering a message from Gambian leader Adama Barrow, Mr Tangara congratulated his Beninese counterpart on his efforts to promote peace in the sub-region.
“I will tell you about all the wonderful things I have seen here,” said Minister Tangara, describing Benin as “a source of inspiration.”
AC/sf/lb/as/APA