As part of events marking the 16th Anniversary of the July 22nd Revolution the President Sheikh Professor Alhaji Dr. Yahya Jammeh Thursday evening hosted a state banquet at the Kairaba Beach Hotel. The banquet was graced by the First Lady Madam Zineb Yahya Jammeh, Cabinet Ministers and members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corp among other dignitaries. It was also graced by Honourable Jing Ping Wang, president of the Taiwanese Legislative Chamber.

Speaking on the occasion the Vice President Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy hailed the mutual relationship between Banjul and Taipei over the past sixteen years. She said President Jammeh's 8 visits to Taipei, the bilateral cooperation between the two countries and the exchange of gestures between Banjul and Taipei clearly demonstrates this cordial relation.

The Vice President added that Taiwan remains a true development partner noting that The Gambia's success story cannot be written without Taiwan. She conveyed President Jammeh's appreciation to his Taiwanese counterpart for the visit.

For his part Honourable Jing Ping Wang President of the Taiwanese Legislative Chamber applauded the reception and hospitality accorded them. Honourable Wang hailed President Jammeh's commitment to the development of the country and the fight against drugs, corruption, food insecurity ill health and illiteracy. He conveyed Taipei's congratulation to the people of The Gambia on the occasion of 16th Anniversary of the July 22nd Revolution and assured of their continued commitment to cooperation with The Gambia.

The Speaker of the National Assembly Honourable Elizabeth Renner expressed hope that the excellent ties between Banjul and Taipei will continue to grow and be emulated by others.

The gathering was entertained by two renowned artists Saikouba Bambino Jobarteh of Guinea Conakry and Kumba Gawlo Seck from Senegal.