It is easy for people to call one another friends, but a true and genuine friend is always easily recognised, as it is only such a friend that will stand by you in times of need. That genuine friendship is exactly what exists between The Gambia and the Republic of Taiwan. The assistance rendered by Taiwan to enable The Gambia mitigate the impact of the food crisis hitting the Sahelian region should not come as a surprise to anyone who knows the history of the bilateral ties between the two countries.

Since The Gambia re-established diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1995, the two countries have been in pursuit of common objectives. Since then, Taiwan has been instrumental in accomplishing the development drive of the country. Their ongoing contribution in the field of agriculture, education, health, science and technology and now security cannot be overemphasised.

The contribution of US$3 million by Taiwan to curb the food shortage resulting from last year’s crop failure is indeed timely and also shows that the two countries are committed to strengthening South-South ties. The significance of this latest gesture from Taiwan to the sustainable development of The Gambia cannot be overemphasised. After all, food is an essential part of living. Among all human activities eating undoubtedly has the greatest effect on health! After breathing, eating is what we do most frequently during a lifetime. In other words, food is the key to survival and survival is the foundation of life. And it is life that produces development.

Development, in essence,isour commitment in our countries and indeed in the global community; of our resources and knowledge, to ensure the creation of a world free of fear and want; where every human being has all opportunities to grow and contribute to his or her fullest potential and also effectively participate in decision-making.

It is evident that it is to such participatory approach to development that The Gambia and Taiwan are committed, hence their determination to engendering genuine cooperation with a view to ensuring that developing nations emancipate themselves from poverty and underdevelopment through their own available means.

We commend Taiwan for consciously proving that she is a true friend of The Gambia. We also wish their president who is currently in The Gambia a wonderful visit.