Bangladesh and The Gambia signed a visa exemption agreement enhancing diplomatic ties and emphasizing The Gambia’s commitment to supporting the Rohingya cause. Minister Dr. Mamadou Tangara reaffirmed ongoing legal and diplomatic backing during the signing ceremony. Both nations committed to broader cooperation in agriculture and peacekeeping while recognizing the importance of global solidarity in addressing the Rohingya issue and other shared challenges.
On March 13, 2025, Bangladesh and The Gambia signed a visa exemption agreement aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations, specifically benefiting official passport holders. This agreement underscores The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to supporting Bangladesh in addressing the Rohingya crisis. Dr. Mamadou Tangara, The Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed gratitude for Bangladesh’s hospitality and reiterated The Gambia’s dedication to advocating for the Rohingya population.
Dr. Tangara, who chairs the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), affirmed that The Gambia is dedicated to promoting the cause of the Rohingya at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He emphasized the importance of allowing the Rohingya to return to their homeland with dignity and highlighted the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable. Tangara acknowledged Bangladesh’s significant role in hosting over a million Rohingya refugees and committed to providing ongoing legal and diplomatic support.
He stated, “We have achieved major victories at the ICJ, but the struggle is far from over. We must work collectively to maintain international pressure for justice and a sustainable resolution to this humanitarian crisis.” He further remarked on the need for global prioritization of the Rohingya issue to continue progressing at international forums.
The Minister proposed broader cooperation in various sectors, notably agriculture and peacekeeping, commending Bangladesh’s progress in food self-sufficiency. He expressed a desire for mutual knowledge exchange in agriculture, underscoring The Gambia’s agricultural potential, and noted Bangladesh’s successful contributions to UN peacekeeping initiatives.
Reflecting on interconnectedness highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted, “The pandemic showed us that no nation exists in isolation. We are interdependent, and global challenges require collective action.” This sentiment was echoed by Home Adviser Lt General (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, who praised The Gambia’s steadfast support for the Rohingya cause at the ICJ, which has strengthened ties between the two nations.
Chowdhury emphasized that the Rohingya crisis transcends regional boundaries, representing a significant global humanitarian concern. He articulated the need for sustained international support, acknowledging Bangladesh’s substantial responsibilities in addressing this crisis. He expressed hope for expanding cooperation beyond the Rohingya issue to cover sectors such as trade, agriculture, and technology.
The ceremony concluded with both countries reaffirming their mutual commitment to pursuing justice for the Rohingya people and enhancing diplomatic and economic cooperation, recognizing the important roles that both nations can play in fostering a sustainable future for the affected population.
The signing of the visa exemption agreement between Bangladesh and The Gambia marks a significant step in strengthening their bilateral relations. The Gambia’s firm support for the Rohingya cause at international forums, coupled with a commitment to ongoing collaboration in agriculture and peacekeeping, underscores its dedication to humanitarian efforts. Continued international pressure and cooperation are deemed essential for resolving the Rohingya crisis and achieving long-term sustainable peace and justice.
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