By Mahzouba Maya Faal
Senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and invited guests converged at the residence of British High Commissioner Harriet King to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III on the 20th of November, 2024 Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency the Vice President of The Gambia, Mohammed B.S. Jallow extended heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty on behalf of the government and people of The Gambia. The Vice President underscored the deep and historic ties between The Gambia and the United Kingdom, describing the relationship as one built on mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared vision for progress. Furthermore, Vice President Jallow reflected on the centuries-old connection between the two nations, outlining challenges and achievements that have shaped the partnership. “While our shared history reflects challenges, it is also marked by resilience and transformation,” he remarked, highlighting the UK’s significant support during The Gambia’s 2017 democratic transition.
The Vice President celebrated the strengthening of bilateral relations through initiatives in education, governance, security, and development. Programs like the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships were praised for their role in empowering Gambians and fostering strong people-to-people links. Looking ahead, Vice President Jallow announced plans to welcome a UK trade delegation to The Gambia in the coming months, with a focus on creating opportunities for Gambian businesses, particularly in agriculture. He also emphasized The Gambia’s progress on climate change commitments, made possible through UK support, including the upcoming sale of the nation’s first carbon credits on the international market.
“On our shared priority of tackling climate change, we stand side by side,” the Vice President noted, commending the UK for its continued partnership in this global effort. In addition to development and environmental priorities, the Vice President highlighted collaboration in upholding democratic principles, human rights, and judicial reform. The UK’s assistance through the Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges Association has been instrumental in equipping the Gambian judiciary to address the challenges of the digital age. He also lauded the strong ties between the armed forces of both nations, acknowledging the contributions of Gambian graduates from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the Royal Naval College. Regular joint training exercises, he noted, prepare troops from both nations for global peacekeeping missions.
The Vice President concluded his remarks by celebrating the shared values that bind The Gambia and the UK, expressing optimism for continued collaboration and a prosperous future. “On this special day, we wish His Majesty King Charles III continued health, happiness, and success. May his reign continue to inspire unity, progress, and peace—not just within the United Kingdom but across the Commonwealth and beyond,” Vice President Jallow declared.
