Taiwan’s president, Ma Ying Jeou Saturday wrapped-up his four-day state visit to The Gambia. One aspect of the visit which is fundamental and deserves analysis for the common person is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries which seeks to further enhance the already fruitful bi-lateral Banjul-Taipei ties.

It is obvious that such a reassurance to guarantee the two countries cooperation for development is not only fundamental and genuine, but also shows the commitment of Banjul and Taipei to South-South cooperation and the development of both countries.

This of course, is not about the treasured financial aid the country continues to receive from the people of Taiwan. It is about Taiwan's commendable sense of respect, understanding of mutual relationships, among a whole lot of conventionally respectable societal values. These are values The Gambia cherishes so dearly and seriously takes into account.Everyone is aware that the Taiwanese have been involved in every sector of our development endeavours, such as education, agriculture, health, etc. They have been there for us at alltimes.

The MoU to reaffirm commitment to the ties between the two countries is an indication that relations between Banjul and Taipei are waxing stronger each day. It further shows that The Gambia and Taiwan are committed to the participatory approach to development, hence their determination to engendering genuine cooperation.

With dedication and genuine commitment to the principles of our bilateral ties, the two countries shall certainly accomplish their aspirations both at national and international levels. In fact, it is the ambition of president Jammeh to ensure that the South countries emancipate themselves from poverty and underdevelopment using their own available means.

This is why he spares no efforts in ensuring that strong diplomatic ties exist among us. We hope that the other South countries will soon follow suit. It is unison and harmony among people of common interest that yield success. The Gambia and Taiwan are therefore models in championing the success of the South in development.