By Lamin Njie
The European Union (EU) Ambassador and Head of Delegation in The Gambia, Ms. Immaculada Roca I Cortes, recently paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honourable Abdoulie Jobe, at his office in Banjul.
The ambassador and delegation were at the Ministry to strengthen the existing relationship between the Government of The Gambia and the EU, especially in the areas of tourism, arts, and culture.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Cortes stated that tourism is one of the key sectors of the economy of The Gambia that needs to be supported to make the sector vibrant.
She therefore affirmed that the EU will support the country’s drive in its endeavours for a more resilient and diversified tourism sector, which could create more employment opportunities for the youth and women.
She also mentioned the recently launched EU-Youth Empowerment Project for Tourism and Creative Industries, which she said is a good initiative for empowerment, especially for those in the tourism sector.
“This project is for five years, and it is expected to create more jobs and skills development for the young of this country,” she said.
Ambassador Cortes further reaffirmed her office’s collaboration and continued support to the tourism sector and other key development agendas of the Government of The Gambia.
On receiving the Ambassador and delegation, Honourable Abdoulie Jobe, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, thanked the Ambassador for the visit and reassured her of his Ministry’s support and cooperation at all times.
Minister Jobe also assured that the Government of The Gambia is committed to the full implementation of the EU-Youth Empowerment Project, and that all hands will be on deck to support the project.
“We are very happy to receive you. Already, we have a very wonderful relationship with the EU team here on the ground, and we hope this will continue to reach higher heights. This project will create more jobs, increase the number of tourist arrivals as well,” he said.
He concluded that his office is all set for a new partnership and collaborations, which will also accommodate key players such as the private sector’s participation in the tourism sector.
