Sri Lankan Ambassador Expresses Interest in Agric, Energy Cooperation

By Mahzouba Maya Faal

In a diplomatic exchange aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, the Sri Lankan Ambassador to The Gambia, Kana Kananathan, residing in Kenya, extended a courtesy visit to the Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow on April 23rd, 2024. The meeting served as a platform to deepen ties between the two nations and explore avenues for collaborative efforts across vital sectors of the Gambian economy.
Central to the discussions were strategies to enhance food production and power generation within The Gambia, and other critical needs of nation’s development agenda. Both parties identified key areas for potential investment, signalling a shared commitment to fostering sustainable growth and self-reliance.
A primary focus of the dialogue centred on advancing rice cultivation in The Gambia. The objective is to attain self-sufficiency in food production, mitigating dependency on external sources. 
In line with sustainable development goals, considerable emphasis was placed on renewable energy initiatives, particularly in solar and hydropower generation. The discussions underscored the imperative to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, advocating eco-friendly alternatives to meet the nation’s energy needs. By harnessing abundant solar resources and exploring hydroelectric potential, The Gambia seeks to enhance energy security while mitigating environmental impact.
The diplomatic exchange between Sri Lanka and The Gambia highlights a shared vision for mutual prosperity and sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts and strategic investments in key sectors, both nations are poised to unlock new opportunities and propel socio-economic advancement.