Gambian leader vows to deepen partnership

Gambian President Adama Barrow said he is looking to cement ties with China during the upcoming 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, emphasizing that Beijing's role in Africa stands out due to its approach of equal partnership and mutual benefit.

In an exclusive written interview with China Daily, Barrow lauded the "pivotal role" of China in the development of the West African country, "particularly through substantial investments in infrastructure, agriculture and education".

"China's advancements in green technology and sustainable practices are of particular importance to Africa, as we seek to develop our economies while minimizing environmental impact," Barrow said. "We are eager to learn from China's experience in reducing carbon emissions, managing natural resources sustainably and promoting renewable energy."

This year's summit represents an opportunity to deepen Gambia's strategic partnership with China and other African nations, he said.

The Gambian president, who will take part in the FOCAC summit for the second time, is among dozens of African leaders who are gathering in Beijing for this year's summit, scheduled from Wednesday to Friday.

Barrow said he believes that "the summit will provide a platform to discuss the evolving global challenges and the ongoing global health crises".

"We believe that by working together, China and Africa can develop innovative solutions that benefit both sides and contribute to global stability and prosperity," he said.

China is Gambia's largest trading partner. Last year, the volume of trade between the two nations, which resumed diplomatic relations in 2016, reached $520 million, up 5.6 percent year-on-year.

Barrow was a successful property developer who had never held public office before he was elected Gambia's president in 2016. He secured a second term during the presidential election in December 2021.

Under Barrow's leadership, Gambia has significantly deepened ties and mutual cooperation with China. "China has played a pivotal role in our national development, particularly through substantial investments in infrastructure, agriculture and education," he said.

"Looking ahead, I see enormous potential in expanding our cooperation into new sectors. Technology, for instance, is a critical area where China's expertise can help us leapfrog stages of development, particularly in digital infrastructure and innovation," Barrow said.

"This is crucial for integrating Gambia into the global digital economy and improving access to information and services for our citizens. We are also exploring opportunities in e-governance, which will allow us to streamline public administration and make government services more efficient and accessible," he added.

Barrow called renewable energy another promising field, and said that China's leadership in solar and wind power technologies could help his nation sustainably meet its energy needs. Gambia has been an active participant in the Belt and Road Initiative, benefiting from several key infrastructure projects, including major highways, bridges and energy facilities, that are currently underway or in their planning stages.

The Gambian president said such projects are crucial for enhancing connectivity and powering the African nation's economy, and have been instrumental in addressing some of its most pressing development challenges, including improving transportation networks and ensuring a reliable energy supply.

Barrow emphasized that "concerns about 'debt traps' are often based on misunderstandings or misrepresentations of the BRI's objectives".

"In Gambia, we approach these partnerships with a clear strategy, ensuring that all agreements are made transparently and with a full understanding of our financial responsibilities. The improvements in infrastructure directly contribute to economic growth, job creation and, ultimately, the betterment of the lives of Gambians," he said.

The historical — and sometimes paternalistic — engagement of other global powers makes China's role in Africa stand out with its unique approach of equal partnership and mutual benefit, Barrow noted.

"China respects our sovereignty and works with us to achieve our development objectives, rather than imposing external agendas. This relationship is built on trust and, as a result, China has become a reliable partner for many African nations," he said.

China's role in Africa is also a balancing force in a world where global power dynamics are constantly shifting, Barrow said. "By aligning with China, Gambia can better position itself to take advantage of emerging opportunities and address challenges in a rapidly changing world," he added.

The partnership between Gambia and China has brought tangible benefits that have improved the lives of Gambians, according to Barrow.

He cited the example of the Gambian healthcare sector, in which Chinese support has led to the construction of hospitals and the provision of advanced medical equipment. These have greatly improved the quality of healthcare services available to Gambian people, he said.

So far, China has sent six groups of medical teams to Gambia, comprising a total of 62 personnel. Currently, 10 medical team members are working in the African country.

Barrow is set to sit down with President Xi Jinping for a bilateral meeting during the upcoming summit. The Gambian leader lauded the Chinese president as a "leader of remarkable vision and determination", adding that Xi's leadership "has not only propelled China to new heights, but has also had a profound impact on the global stage".

Xi's major global initiatives have demonstrated a commitment to fostering global connectivity and shared prosperity, which resonate strongly with Gambia's own development goals, Barrow said.

"President Xi's focus on building a community with a shared future for mankind is particularly inspiring, as it aligns with our belief in multilateralism and international cooperation," he said. "We deeply admire his dedication to creating a more equitable and sustainable world, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration under his guidance."