By Makutu Manneh
The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia held a reception on Monday, September 28, to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, drawing government officials, diplomats, and members of the Gambian and Chinese communities.
The reception, hosted by Chinese Ambassador Liu Jin, brought together more than 300 guests, including former First Lady Lady Chilel Jawara, wife of the late President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara; Chief Justice Edrissa M.O. Faal; cabinet ministers; National Assembly members; heads of diplomatic missions; and representatives of the Gambian and Chinese communities.
In his remarks, Ambassador Liu reflected on China’s development over the past 77 years under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, pointing to the country’s economic growth and social stability.
He said China’s experience had demonstrated that the country had pursued a development path suited to its national circumstances and argued that its record should ultimately be judged by history and the Chinese people.
“China’s modernization offers opportunities, not threats, to all countries. China’s progress brings benefits, not obstacles, to human civilization,” Ambassador Liu said.
He added that China’s development was rooted in a civilization spanning thousands of years.
“China boasts a 5,000-year civilization that has continued without interruption,” he said. “This ancient civilization is the source of China’s development today and the foundation of the Chinese people’s confidence.”
Ambassador Liu also highlighted China’s longstanding relationship with Africa, noting that this year marks 70 years since China established diplomatic relations with African countries. He described the relationship as one that China and Africa had built together over decades of engagement and cooperation.
Turning to relations with The Gambia, the ambassador reviewed cooperation between Beijing and Banjul since the two countries restored diplomatic ties a decade ago.
He said cooperation between the two countries had delivered tangible benefits while strengthening bilateral relations. He expressed hope that China and The Gambia would continue to deepen their partnership and work toward what he described as a shared future.
Ambassador Liu also used the occasion to bid farewell as he prepares to complete his tour of duty in The Gambia, expressing confidence that relations between the two countries would continue to grow.
Speaking on behalf of the Gambian government, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Lamin Jabbi congratulated China on its National Day and praised the country’s development achievements.
Mr. Jabbi commended China’s cooperation with The Gambia and other countries in the Global South, describing relations between Banjul and Beijing as a partnership that extends beyond major infrastructure projects to sustained cooperation affecting people’s everyday lives.
“It is against this broader background that we reflect with particular appreciation on the relationship between The Gambia and the People’s Republic of China,” Mr. Jabbi said. “Our two countries enjoy a long history of friendship and cooperation.”
He also thanked Ambassador Liu for his contributions during his tenure and reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to the one-China policy. He said the Gambian government remained committed to further strengthening its strategic partnership with Beijing.
The reception concluded with cultural performances by Chinese and Gambian musicians, who performed pieces from both countries before an audience of guests.
The performances highlighted the cultural dimension of relations between the two countries, bringing together Gambian and Chinese musical traditions and underscoring growing people-to-people ties between Banjul and Beijing.
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