The minister of Youth and Sports, Sheriff Gomez has described the Republic of China (Taiwan) and The Gambia as true partners, saying both countries have been mutually benefiting from each other.

Minister Gomez was speaking Friday during the closing of a 10-day intensive cultural exchange programme between Gambian and Taiwanese youths. The programme, which was hosted at the Baobab Holiday Resort in Bijilo, was organised by the Taiwanese government through its' embassy in Banjul, in collaboration with the government of The Gambia.

According to the Youth and Sports minister, Gambia and Taiwan are not only partners, but also two brother countries that are inseparable. He said the event was only a "tip of the iceberg", and manifests the solid relationship that exists between the two countries. He opined that organising such activities for young people will prepare them well to eventually become productive adults who will respect and value their cultures. He added that culture is an integral entity in the socio-cultural development of any country.

Minister Gomez further reminded the young people that the two countries [The Gambia and Taiwan] though small in size, are intimately united and have been supportive to each other. He declared that Taiwan has the right and to aspire for membership in international organisations, something he said The Gambia has advocated for in many international fora.  
 
While reiterating the Gambia government's unreserved commitment to maintain its relationship with Taiwan, Minister Gomez used the opportunity to commend the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) through its' Banjul Embassy for organising the programme.
For his part, Richard Shih, the Taiwanese ambassador to The Gambia, said President Jammeh, who attaches importance to culture and its promotion, inspired the organisation of this year's Youth Ambassador Cultural Exchange Programme.

He expressed hope that the event will create the opportunity for the two countries to renew their commitment to supporting each other and to strengthen their existing bilateral relations. Momodou Tangara, the minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, observed that culture is very crucial in the enhancement of the development of any country, adding that cultural preservation and value is a step to achieving a peaceful environment. He reminded the young people that they must be ready to learn in diverse areas, including culture and tradition so as to equip themselves for the future. Like Minister Gomez, Tangara equally reiterated Gambia government's unwavering determination to strengthen its' relations with Taiwan.

Madi Jatta, deputy permanent secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, observed that cultural values and respect teach people to live in a peaceful and cohesive society.Ousman Badjie, president of the University of The Gambia (UTG) Students Union and Yu Tsai-Ping, a member of the Taiwanese delegation, both agreed that the weeklong activity has enriched their horizon in each other's cultural background. They both equally commended the two countries for organising the programme and expressed hope that the initiative will continue.