The Interior Ministry of The Gambia and the Italian Interior Department Public Security, Thursday signed a bilateral agreement geared towards strengthening Police cooperation in the Fight against Migrant Smuggling and Irregular Migration, at a ceremony held at the Office of the Vice President at State House, Banjul.

This latest development came following a one-day working visit to The Gambia by the vice minister of Interior of Italy, Nitto Francesco Palma and his delegation that included the Italy chief of Police and director general of Public Security.Ebrima Sama Chorr, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Interior signed on behalf of The Gambia, while Antonio Manganella, the Italy chief of Police and director general of Public Security, signed on behalf of the Italian government.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Antonio Manganella said they have a very cordial relationship with the Gambian community in Italy. He explained that the signing of this bilateral agreement will be a great step forward in reinforcing the cooperation not only with The Gambia but other African countries especially in the fight against migrant smuggling and irregular migration.

The Italy police chief added that from now onwards, the bilateral friendship and cooperation between the police forces of the two countries will be further sealed, and expressed happiness at visiting Banjul. He thanked the leadership of the country through Vice President Njie-Saidy and the security officials for the warm welcome accorded them.

For his part, Ebrima Sama Chorr, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Interior, who spoke on behalf of the Gambian authorities said the signing of the cooperation agreement will be reinforced with commitments between the two countries in a move to combat illegal migration and other related activities that have continued to claim the lives of those who are supposed to be future leaders.

He said this move will go a log way in strengthening the bilateral ties that exist between the two countries, and will further help The Gambia to build a future that is comparable to many developed countries as well as capable of providing opportunities for those who partake in the dangerous illegal migration through the high seas.

"I firmly believe that these provisions and requirements stipulated in the agreement are adequately respective of the needs and challenges that will be encountered by both countries in our common fight against illegal migration and human trafficking," he said, while acknowledging that the government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Interior is committed to the execution of the mandates and provisions to jealously safeguard the bilateral agreement signed.

He then extended appreciation to the Italians for their assistance and collaboration extended to the Gambian authorities in the fight against illegal migration and other awful menaces.Security chiefs, senior government officials and members of the Italian delegation attended the signing ceremony.