Africa-Press – Gambia. President Adama Barrow of The Gambia and his Bissau-Guinean counterpart, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, have signed two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of security and trade.
The agreements were finalized during President Barrow’s two-day state visit to Guinea-Bissau from 8–9 September 2025, a trip designed to deepen ties between the two West African nations.
The MoUs were signed on behalf of The Gambia by Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang and Trade Minister Babucarr O. Joof, alongside their Guinean counterparts.
According to a statement from the State House, the trade pact responds directly to concerns raised by Gambian residents in Guinea-Bissau during a town hall meeting with President Barrow. It is expected to reduce trade barriers, boost cross-border commerce, and spur industrial growth, job creation, and improved living standards in both countries.
“It will reduce trade barriers and increase trade between the two countries, resulting in industrial development, job creation, economic growth, and the improvement of living standards of the people of both countries,” the release stated.
In addition to trade and security, the two governments pledged to broaden cooperation in infrastructure, energy, public health, education, and public sector reform. Both leaders also underscored their commitment to strengthening ties between their private sectors, including through joint procurement of essential goods.
“They expressed a desire to promote stronger economic and commercial relations between the private sectors, especially through joint procurement of essential commodities,” State House noted.
On the security front, discussions centered on conflict prevention and crisis management in Africa. Presidents Barrow and Embaló reiterated their determination to work together within the African Union and United Nations frameworks, emphasizing shared values of democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights.
As part of his visit, President Barrow toured the MC Group flour factory in Bissau’s Blola Industrial Zone, where he was welcomed by Industry Minister Florentino Fernando Dias.
State House described the visit as “historic,” highlighting its potential to unlock socio-economic opportunities between the two nations “for the benefit of the young generation.”
“The historic state visit harnessed the immense socio-economic development potentials between The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau for the benefit of the young generation,” the state house statement concluded.
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