Bangladesh and The Gambia have signed a visa exemption agreement for diplomatic passport holders, enhancing their bilateral relations. The ceremony underscored The Gambia’s ongoing support for the Rohingya people, with commitments to advocacy at the International Court of Justice. The two nations expressed intentions for broader collaboration in agriculture, trade, and peacekeeping efforts.
On March 13, 2025, Bangladesh and The Gambia formalized a visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and official passports, marking a pivotal advancement in their bilateral relations. The signing event emphasized The Gambia’s steadfast support for Bangladesh regarding the Rohingya issue, underscoring a shared commitment to humanitarian initiatives.
Dr. Mamadou Tangara, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad of The Gambia, expressed gratitude towards Bangladesh for its efforts in hosting over a million Rohingya refugees. He reiterated The Gambia’s dedication to advocating for the welfare and rights of the Rohingya people in international forums such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
As the current Chair of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), The Gambia is committed to ensuring the Rohingya people’s voices are amplified. Tangara stated, “We are dedicated to ensuring that their voices are heard and that they can return to their homeland with dignity.” He articulated the necessity of achieving justice for the Rohingya, emphasizing the importance of holding those responsible accountable while promoting a future where they can live peacefully.
In his address, Tangara highlighted the collaborative potential between Bangladesh and The Gambia in areas such as agriculture and peacekeeping. He accused the global interconnectedness observed during the COVID-19 pandemic as a reminder that collective action is essential for resolving the Rohingya crisis, stating, “The pandemic showed us that no nation exists in isolation. We are interdependent, and global challenges require collective action.”
Lt Gen (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Home Adviser of Bangladesh, praised The Gambia’s unwavering support for the Rohingya and emphasized the need for sustained international cooperation. He remarked that the Rohingya issue is not merely regional but a global humanitarian challenge that requires widespread support, noting, “Bangladesh has shouldered a massive responsibility.”
The Home Adviser also expressed optimism regarding future cooperation beyond the Rohingya situation, envisioning collaboration in trade, agriculture, and other sectors. He underscored the potential for partnerships in ready-made garments and pharmaceuticals, noting the necessity for climate-vulnerable nations to forge resilience in sustainable farming.
The ceremony concluded with both nations reiterating their commitment to continuing their partnership and enhancing diplomatic and economic cooperation. The agreement reflects a significant step towards addressing the Rohingya crisis, highlighting the mutual determination to advocate for human rights and dignified living conditions for all affected individuals.
In conclusion, the signing of the visa exemption agreement between Bangladesh and The Gambia signifies a solidifying bond in their bilateral relations and mutual commitment to humanitarian causes, particularly regarding the Rohingya issue. Both nations have pledged to work collaboratively towards justice and sustainable resolutions, reaffirming their dedication to uplifting the rights and dignity of the Rohingya people while fostering broader cooperation in various sectors. This partnership not only addresses immediate humanitarian concerns but also lays a foundation for future collaboration.
Original Source: www.thedailystar.net
