The Gambia will be hosting the ECOWAS Chiefs of Defence Staff committee meeting.

According to a press release from the Army Headquarters, the meeting will bring together the Chiefs of Defence Staff of ECOWAS member states to discuss relevant issues that affect the sub-region. 

The meeting, which will be the 1st of its kind, is scheduled to run from the 19th to 21st of March 2008.

“The meeting will also discuss current political issues in the sub-region and work out the way forward to strengthen cooperation, restoration and maintenance of peace in the affected areas as well as military integration,” the release added.

The release further stated that this meeting is in conformity with some ECOWAS protocols and is geared towards bringing the militaries within the sub-region closer, adding that this will contribute positively in improving and guaranteeing security in West Africa.

The release also revealed that some strategic non- ECOWAS partner nations such as the United Kingdom, France and the United States of America, amongst others, will also be represented at the meeting, but only as observers.

“In view of the foregone, and as a show of Gambian hospitality, the Gambia Armed Forces solicits the cooperation and assistance of the general public during this important event. The Gambia Armed Forces Public Relations Department will keep you updated on the event as and when necessary,” the release concluded.