Gambia’s President, Adama Barrow, has welcomed the China-Africa economic partnership aimed at accelerating Africa’s industrialisation and agricultural modernisation.
Speaking at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, President Barrow highlighted the potential of the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership between China and Africa.
He emphasized that the agreement, which focuses on agriculture, trade, and investment, will help attract vital investment to Africa.President Barrow expressed optimism that the agreement would not only boost economic growth in line with national development strategies but also enhance Africa’s role in global industrial development and economic cooperation.
The China-Africa summit, held from September 4-6, 2024, brings together African leaders to strengthen ties with China. The discussions are expected to shape the future of China-Africa relations. President Barrow reaffirmed Gambia’s support for China and reiterated the country’s commitment to the One China Principle.
Barrow also acknowledged the benefits Gambia has received through its partnership with China, including capacity-building support and infrastructure projects, aligning these with Gambia’s National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.He further noted that Africa’s involvement in such forums underscores the importance of equitable participation in global decision-making.
President Barrow expressed Gambia’s support for the Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to expand cooperation between China, Africa, and other regions.