The President Alhaji Dr. Yahya Jammeh has told the Defense Chiefs of West Africa that they hold the ''key'' for stability in the sub-region. He was speaking during a meeting he had with Defense Chiefs who are currently in Banjul for the 21st Meeting of the ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defense Staff. The security chiefs were led to State House by their Gambian counterpart Major General Lang Tombong Tamba.

Speaking on the occasion President Jammeh underscored the important role the Armed Forces play in the promotion of peace, security and stability in West Africa. He also buttressed the need for Africans to come together for the development of the continent, noting that without understanding and cooperation Africans will continue to live in abject poverty.

For his part Major General Lang Tombong Tamba thanked the Gambian Leader for his personnel support in ensuring a successful meeting. The Chairman of the Committee of Chiefs of Defense Staff General Ali Trawally of Burkina Faso expressed gratitude to President Jammeh for his hospitality and the warm welcome accorded them.