The framework of cooperation between The Gambia and the European Union started under Lome Convention I in 1976. Under the Cotonou Agreement, first signed in 2000, this cooperation has been broadened to cover three complimentary pillars: development cooperation, political  dialogue, and economic and commercial cooperation, with the ultimate aim of addressing poverty through sustainable development.

In addition to the Central Government and Public institutions, the cooperation now involves local government, the private sector, and Non-State Actors.    The EDF is the main instrument for Community aid for development cooperation in the ACP countries. The jointly-agreed Country Strategy Paper for The Gambia (2008-2013) presents the strategic framework for EC-cooperation with The Gambia under the 10th EDF. It is aligned with the National Development Plan established by the Government of The Gambia, based on the Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment (PAGE) and Vision 2020.

The CSP is accompanied by a National Indicative Programme (NIP), a more detailed executive plan of action for implementing the strategy. The current NIP comprises €60.8 million under envelope A (long-term programmable development operations) and €4.54 million for envelope B (non-programmable contingency funds for emergency use).