Libreville: His Excellency President Adama Barrow, accompanied by First Lady Madam Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, has concluded his visit to the Gabonese Republic, where he served as the Special Guest of Honour for the 66th anniversary celebration of Gabon's independence.

According to African Press Organization, the celebration featured nearly five hours of military parade showcasing the country's defence and security forces. Participants from military academies and various security and defence units displayed their uniforms, operational suits, and military equipment, ranging from medical to engineering. With approximately 25% of Gabon's national budget allocated to defence, the event highlighted the nation's military strength and capabilities.

Following the parade, a state cocktail reception was held, during which President Barrow received an inspirational tour of the new city of Belle Roi, constructed on reclaimed land from the sea. On Monday evening, President Barrow, along with First Lady Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, met with over five hundred Gambians residing in Gabon. The Gambians expressed their pleasure in meeting the President and conveyed their support, acknowledging the significant developments taking place in their homeland.

President Barrow expressed his gratitude to his hosts for their hospitality during his visit. Addressing the concerns of the Gambian community in Gabon, he assured them of his commitment to addressing their needs and aspirations. Despite criticism regarding the government's efforts to provide identity documentation to Gambians abroad, President Barrow pledged to facilitate the process. He emphasized that Gambians residing in other African countries remain an integral part of the Diaspora.

President Oligui Nguema and First Lady Zita Nyangui Oligui Nguema bid farewell to the Gambian leader and his delegation on Tuesday morning as they departed from Leon Mba Airport for Banjul. The Presidential delegation included Foreign Minister Honourable Sering Modou Njie and Chief of Staff Alieu Loum.