The Gambia’s Commitment to Supporting Bangladesh on the Rohingya Issue
The Gambia and Bangladesh signed a visa exemption agreement, reinforcing their diplomatic relationship while emphasizing The Gambia’s support for the Rohingya cause. Dr. Mamadou Tangara reaffirmed commitment to advocating for the Rohingya at the ICJ, emphasizing accountability for perpetrators and peace for the community. The countries also discussed broader cooperation in agriculture and peacekeeping, recognizing the need for collective action on global humanitarian issues.
The Gambia has reiterated its unwavering legal and diplomatic support for Bangladesh regarding the Rohingya crisis, following the signing of a visa exemption agreement between the two nations. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of this agreement in enhancing bilateral relations while pledging continued advocacy for Rohingya rights, which he described as a matter of dignity.
As the sitting chair of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), The Gambia expressed its commitment to safeguarding the interests of the Rohingya at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Tangara noted the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable and reiterated the goal of ensuring peace and the restoration of fundamental rights for the Rohingya community. He acknowledged Bangladesh’s remarkable support in hosting over a million Rohingya refugees.
Tangara also urged collective action to maintain international pressure for justice and sustainable resolution to the humanitarian crisis. During discussions at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), participants agreed that the Rohingya issue remains a global priority.
Furthermore, he highlighted the potential for increased cooperation between The Gambia and Bangladesh in agriculture and peacekeeping efforts, noting Bangladesh’s achievements in food self-sufficiency and its prominent role in UN peacekeeping missions. The collaboration could yield substantial benefits given both nations’ agricultural reliance.
Reflecting on the Covid-19 pandemic, Tangara underscored the interconnectedness of nations and the need for global solidarity in addressing the Rohingya situation. Home Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury remarked on the invaluable support from The Gambia in seeking justice for the Rohingya at the ICJ, encouraging sustained international cooperation to address this humanitarian crisis.
The adviser also expressed hopes for broader collaboration beyond the Rohingya issue, envisioning partnerships in trade, agriculture, and various sectors. He appreciated the agreement’s facilitation of diplomatic interactions, highlighting the nations’ mutual benefits in cooperation towards food processing, pharmaceuticals, and resilience against climate challenges.
The ceremony concluded with both countries reaffirming their dedication to pursuing justice for the Rohingya and expanding diplomatic and economic cooperation in the future. The collaboration between The Gambia and Bangladesh symbolizes a crucial step towards addressing international humanitarian challenges.
In summary, The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh in advocating for the Rohingya people’s rights through legal and diplomatic channels. The recent visa exemption agreement signifies a strengthening of bilateral relations. Both nations recognize the importance of collective action in securing justice for the Rohingya and explore avenues for collaboration in agriculture and peacekeeping, highlighting the broader implications of global solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises.
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