State House, Banjul, 18 April 2024: His Excellency President Adama Barrow received the U.S. Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedoms, Rashad Hussain, who is currently visiting the country to engage with members of the Government and civil society.

The trip marked the Ambassador's second visit to The Gambia. President Barrow was pleased to exchange ideas with him at the Presidential Office in Banjul to strengthen the bilateral partnership between The Gambia and the United States.

The meeting addressed various aspects of cooperation between The Gambia and the US. Key among the discussions was the proposed repeal of the law banning Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Ambassador Rashad Hussain expressed concern about the potential reversal of the law ‘protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.’

Speaking during the audience, Ambassador Rashad expressed deep appreciation to The Gambia for supporting Rohingya, one of the most persecuted minorities in the world. He added that The Gambia's dedication to the International Court of Justice for supporting the rights of the Rohingya Muslims to ensure accountability for the crimes against humanity meted out to the Rohingya population. 

President Barrow is committed to working with the United States to promote religious freedom and democratic development.

The Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom monitors religious freedom, persecution and discrimination worldwide.