China strengthens ties with Gambia

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China will enhance cooperation with Gambia in infrastructure, agriculture, tourism and other fields, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his visiting Gambian counterpart Ousainou Darboe on Tuesday.

Gambia, the West African nation, resumed diplomatic ties with China in March 2016 since its government vowed to follow the one-China policy and acknowledged that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory.

Wang believed the resumption of diplomatic ties between two sides has not only brought bilateral relations back to the right track but also opened up broad prospects for mutually beneficial cooperation.

Gambian Foreign Minister Ousainou Darboe at his home in Serekunda on April 7, 2017. /AFP Photo

Darboe responded that the Gambian government and people highly approved of the ideas and initiatives proposed by Chinese leaders regarding China-Africa cooperation. He said they highly appreciate the support and assistance China has provided to the country during the reconstruction of its economy and society.

Darboe also told Wang during the meeting that Gambia will firmly stick to one-China policy.

Wang hoped bilateral relations could be pushed to a higher level through enhancing mutual trust as well as strengthening coordination in global and regional affairs.

Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi meets with visiting Gambian Foreign Minister Ousainou Darboe in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 1, 2017. /Xinhua Photo

Although Wang did not give any specifics about the level of support but he signed a consultation mechanism agreement with Darboe after the meeting.

Chinese companies have already bid to help Gambia build up its Atlantic port together with French companies.

Darboe was invited by Wang to visit China from Monday to Sunday. This week-long official visit is Darboe's first official China tour since Gambian President Adam Barrow took office in January.

Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi also held a meeting with the Gambian delegation on Tuesday.

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