Present there on invitation together with Kim Yong Nam were Choe Chang Sik, minister of Public Health, Kim Hyong Jun, vice-minister of Foreign Affairs, Ri Myong San, vice-minister of Foreign Trade, Ri Kyong Son, DPRK ambassador to Gambia, and other suite members.

On hand were Vice-President of Gambia Aja Isatou Njie Saidy, Speaker of the National Assembly Elizabeth Lenne and government ministers, military commanders and officials concerned of Gambia, diplomatic envoys of different countries and representatives of international organizations in Banjul.

Aja Isatou Njie Saidy said in her speech at the reception that the DPRK has made big achievements despite foreign forces' ceaseless interference and the Korean people having strong will and courage are exercising influence in the international arena.

She referred to the fact that the relations between the two countries have developed on good terms because of their common desire, expressing belief that the relations of bilateral cooperation would grow stronger through the implementation of the projects for socio-economic development.

Kim Yong Nam said in his speech that the Gambian government and people have consolidated the national independence by eradicating the aftermath of the colonial rule and made successes in the work for economic development and the prosperity of the country.

General Secretary Kim Jong Il has paid a deep attention to the development of the friendly and cooperative relations with Gambia, he said, expressing belief that this visit would mark an important occasion in injecting fresh energy into the development of the relations of bilateral cooperation.

There was a performance given by Gambian artistes.