The governments of the Gambia and Senegal Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of the trans-Gambia bridge and the rehabilitation of a cross-border road section to link Keur Ayib-Senoba-Farrafenni-Bounkiling. Mambury Njie, the Gambia's Foreign minister and his Senegalese counterpart, Alioune Badara Cisse,signedon behalf of their respective countries.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Senegalese Foreign Affairs minister, disclosed that the cost involved to implement this project stands at CFA50 billion, a jackpot funded by the African Development Bank with a construction period of five years. He said the laying of the foundation stone of this work is scheduled later this month of August 2012.

He described this project as probably the largest project in the history of the new Senegalese government under Macky Sall."Our worship of diplomacy is the one that allowed us to reap these benefits," reported the Senegalese Minister of Foreign Affairs. The first country to have been visited by Macky Sall, a few days after installation was The Gambia.

And the evening of the meeting between the two heads of state, important decisions were made for a perfect cohesion in relationships. Fraternal exchanges, firm pledges were made among them today's event which is the signing of a memorandum of the bridge, said minister Cisse.

He further described the day as really the realization of the much-talked Senegambian dream. "Also, history will record that this historic moment happens under the regime of Presidents Sall and Jammeh" he concluded.

For his part,minister Mambury Njie, confirmed that the construction of the bridge will begin before the end of 2012. He said this project is coming into reality after long negotiation, but added it will further strengthen the old ties between the two countries. "The free movement of persons and their property, between the Gambia and Senegal, will benefit both countries" he said. He saluted the two leaders for the laud initiative and assured of Gambia's commitment and readiness to adhere to the agreements at all times.

Mor Ngom, the Senegalese minister for Infrastructure and Equipment said this dynamic partnership will subjugate the South.