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I welcome you all to the smiling coast – The Gambia. For us in The
Gambia, the hosting of this important event, the Seventh Ordinary
Session of the Assembly of African Union Heads of State and Government
provides an opportunity to share with our brothers and sisters from
Africa and beyond, the true Gambian hospitality for which the country is
well known. I thank my colleagues for this mark of trust and
confidence.
As the African renaissance steadily progresses, we are proud that The
Gambia has been selected as a venue to map out the future course of our
Continent’s rejuvenation. We are inspired by our collective
determination to build a strong and united Africa free from wars and all
other forms of violence; a Continent solidly anchored on the path of
progress and development.
The Gambia lies across the main migration routes of West Africa and for
this reason enjoys an extremely rich cultural and social diversity for a
country of its size. The various ethnic and cultural groups have always
lived together in peace each contributing its quota to the
socio-economic and political development of the country. In a Continent
that has been ravaged by violence and wars The Gambia stands out as a
beacon of peace and stability built on a culture of tolerance.
The Gambian people will spare no effort to make your stay useful and
memorable. During your visit we want you to take time to enjoy the
cultural and social life of your Gambian hosts. We have proposed a rich
cultural and entertainment programme throughout the Summit which can be
found on the Summit website. We urge you to take advantage of this
offer.
Finally, we wish you all an enjoyable stay.
HE The President of the
Republic of The Gambia
Dr. Alh Yayha A.J.J. Jammeh
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