The Gambia Reaffirms Commitment to One-China Policy

Lawmakers in The Gambia have reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the One-China Policy following a motion introduced in parliament by Lower Saloum representative Sainey Jawara.

The motion seeks to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy in support of the policy, which recognises the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government representing China and considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory.

Presenting the motion before lawmakers, Jawara said the principle aligns The Gambia with the majority of countries worldwide and reflects its commitment to a rules-based international order.

“Under this principle, the Government of the People’s Republic of China is recognised as the sole legitimate government representing all of China, and Taiwan is acknowledged as an undeniable part of China’s territory,” he said.

Jawara recalled that diplomatic relations between The Gambia and China were first established on 14 December 1974, nine years after the nation gained independence.

However, ties were suspended during the administration of former president Yahya Jammeh when The Gambia restored diplomatic relations with Taiwan between July 1995 and November 2013.

The lawmaker noted that Banjul later severed relations with Taiwan, paving the way for the restoration of ties with China. On March 17, 2016, the two countries signed a joint communiqué formally resuming diplomatic relations.

Jawara added that since diplomatic relations were restored in 2016, more than 400 Gambian students have received scholarships to study in China, contributing to educational development and broader national reforms.

He said Chinese support has also contributed to infrastructure development in the country, including the construction of bridges and roads in the Upper River Region.