23/10/2024
STATEMENT/INTERVENTION BY HON MAMADOU TANGARA AT THE PRE-CHOGM MINISTERS MEETING (CFAMM)
Excellencies, Honorable Ministers, Distinguished Guests, Friends, and Colleagues,
It is a great honour to be among you today, here in the heart of the Blue Pacific Continent, in Apia, Samoa, for the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
Madam Chair, I wish to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to the government and people of Samoa, through you, for the warm reception and gracious hospitality extended to all delegations. The warmth and generosity of your people have made our gathering truly remarkable.
I would also like to commend the senior officials for their tireless efforts in preparing the draft communiqué during the Marlborough House meeting from September 3rd to 6th, and to my fellow Foreign Ministers for their valuable contributions during our consultations at the UN General Assembly last month. These efforts have laid the groundwork for our discussions today.
Madam Chair, Distinguished Colleagues,
The Gambia has actively participated in the preparation of the agenda items and deliberations on the key communiqués. As we reflect on this year’s CHOGM theme, "One Resilient Common Future – Transforming Our Common Wealth," it is both timely and relevant. It speaks to the complex realities we all face, whether we are from large or small nations.
The global challenges of climate change, the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, and the urgent need to build resilient democratic institutions and inclusive societies demand our collective attention. We also recognize the critical importance of transformative actions in areas such as food security, fostering resilient environments, strengthening economies, and forging partnerships with intergovernmental organizations and civil society. The Commonwealth is uniquely positioned to lead in addressing these challenges through cooperation and innovative solutions.
At the core of the Commonwealth's identity is our shared commitment to values enshrined in our Charter. We remain dedicated to promoting justice, peace, environmental stewardship, and respect for the fundamental human rights of all individuals. These principles unite us and serve as our guiding light in navigating the challenges of our time.
Madam Chair,
The Gambia is proud to partner with the Commonwealth Secretariat on several transformative initiatives, including the implementation of an AI infrastructure strategy. It is crucial that the interests of small states are integrated into the Commonwealth's agenda for AI development, ensuring that these technologies contribute to sustainable development and inclusive growth.
We commend the Secretariat for its comprehensive study on the viability of the Diaspora Investment Strategy, which has been shared with all relevant stakeholders. We are also grateful for the Secretariat’s continued support in implementing The Gambia’s ‘National Export Strategy’ and reviewing our ‘National Sports Policy.’ Moreover, the Commonwealth has provided vital technical assistance, particularly in our reporting to the Committee on the Rights of the Child. The expertise of the Secretariat and the work of the Secretary-General’s Good Offices are commendable and a source of pride for us all.
As we mark the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth, we must continue working to close the gap between rich and poor and expand trade partnerships within the Commonwealth family.
On the important matter of reparations, as raised by our esteemed colleagues from CARICOM, The Gambia believes that these discussions are essential. We must approach them in a spirit of collegiality and shared responsibility to achieve meaningful outcomes.
On Resilient Economies,
As a firm advocate of women’s empowerment, I believe that the social and economic inclusion of women and children must be at the heart of our transformative agenda. Strengthening national connectivity frameworks can empower low-income earners to leverage AI for modern farming, trading, and agricultural techniques, thereby boosting productivity and enhancing food security.
Digital Payment Solutions are another area of significant importance. Implementing secure digital payment systems can facilitate cross-border transactions, reduce trade barriers, and encourage investment. Many small states lack the necessary infrastructure for digital payments, but with the Commonwealth’s support in capacity building, we can overcome these barriers. Enhanced connectivity to digital payment platforms will not only reduce poverty but also have a positive impact on marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities.
Moreover, creating online collaborative platforms will foster alliances and joint ventures, promoting knowledge-sharing and innovation among Commonwealth nations.
In conclusion,
As we engage in the discussions ahead, let us remain focused on our shared values and work together towards a future that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainably developed for generations to come.
Thank you.
