Colonel Omar Faye, defence attaché at the Senegalese High Commission in Banjul, has highlighted the significant gains in stability achieved through the long-standing mutual defence cooperation between The Gambia and Senegal.
Speaking to journalists following a recent visit by Senegal’s Defence Minister, General Birame Diop, Colonel Faye explained that the trip marked another step in the routine high-level exchanges aimed at strengthening security collaboration between the two nations.
“In 2017, both countries signed 15 key agreements covering areas such as joint border patrols, intelligence sharing, and prevention of cross-border criminal or subversive activities,” he said. He added that these agreements have been supported by detailed protocols that have fostered greater harmony between their respective security forces.
Colonel Faye noted that the annual Presidential Council meeting between the countries’ leaders continues to solidify these bonds. He emphasized that General Diop’s visit was a valuable opportunity for direct dialogue with key defence stakeholders in The Gambia, including the Minister of Defence Serigne Modou Njie and the National Assembly’s security committee.
According to Colonel Faye, President Barrow’s warm reception of General Diop underlined the importance both nations place on their strategic relationship. He added that the cooperation, especially the joint patrols, has played a vital role in ensuring peace for communities on both sides of the border.
He described the partnership as the most significant contributor to the sustained peace enjoyed by both nations, noting that any disruption on one side would inevitably affect the other.
“Senegal and The Gambia are intertwined in culture, tradition, and social values. It only makes sense that we work together to safeguard our collective security and future,” Colonel Faye stated.
He concluded by praising the governments and citizens of both countries for their dedication to peace, unity, and mutual progress.
