BANJUL, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Gambia's Foreign Affairs ministry confirmed in a statement on Thursday that the country had readmitted to the Commonwealth.

According to the information, the re-entry came after the Commonwealth heads of government have unanimously accepted The Gambia's application to return to the organisation.

"The Gambia government recognises the role of the Commonwealth as an intergovernmental champion of small states, advocating for their special needs. It provides policy advice on political, economic and social developmental issues," the statement stated.

The government argued that rejoining will regain the country its former glory on international stage. It reiterates its commitment to the fundamental values of the Commonwealth Charter.

"It is fervent desire of this government that our membership will usher in an ara of socio-economic development to complement the government's ongoing efforts, especially for women and youth," it concluded.

The former Gambian leader Yahya Jammeh pulled out the country unilaterally in 2013, indicating that the will not be part of any neo-colonial legacy.