Guinea-Gambia: Conakry and Banjul strengthen ties and the protection of their citizens

Guinea and The Gambia aim to give a new dimension to their bilateral relations. Following a meeting between Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya and his Gambian counterpart Adama Barrow, the two countries decided to establish a permanent dialogue mechanism and strengthen their diplomatic presence to ensure better monitoring of their joint commitments.

This new structure is intended to provide Conakry and Banjul with regular communication channels to more effectively address political, administrative, security, and trade issues. The foreign ministries of both countries have been tasked with establishing this mechanism and opening diplomatic missions.

Beyond institutional considerations, the situation of Guinean communities in The Gambia and Gambian communities in Guinea featured prominently in the discussions. The two leaders intend, in particular, to strengthen the protection of their citizens and ensure respect for their rights and interests in their countries of residence.
The issue is of particular importance to Guinea, which has a large community residing in The Gambia. President Mamadi Doumbouya praised the welcome extended to his compatriots by the Gambian authorities and the measures taken to promote their integration and well-being.

The two states now wish to provide more concrete solutions to the difficulties their citizens may face, particularly regarding administrative documents, mobility, and consular procedures. Increased cooperation between the relevant services is also planned to better protect nationals and combat human trafficking.

Conakry and Banjul also want to facilitate procedures related to the voluntary return and reintegration of the people concerned, while strengthening cooperation in the areas of migration, administration and social affairs.
The two heads of state emphasized the need to preserve the historical ties between the Guinean and Gambian peoples. Initiatives in the cultural, sporting, educational, and community spheres should therefore be further encouraged to strengthen a bond that extends beyond mere relations between governments.

Through these commitments, Guinea and The Gambia intend to move from a cooperation essentially punctuated by official meetings to a more structured, monitored relationship focused on the interests of both peoples.

Djamila Kambou