By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a pivotal meeting in Tehran, Dr. Seyyed Abdul Fattah Nawwab, the Representative of the Supreme Leader for Hajj and Pilgrimage Affairs in Iran, reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Sierra Leone.
The discussions, which took place with Ambassador Salamu Koroma, focused on fostering Islamic solidarity, cooperation in Hajj pilgrimage management, and expanding broader ties between the two nations.
Dr. Nawwab, who oversees Hajj affairs in Iran, highlighted the country’s extensive experience in facilitating the sacred pilgrimage. He emphasised Iran’s readiness to share its expertise, particularly in Hajj management, through its educational programs and its rich history of publishing nearly 2,000 books on the pilgrimage over the past 46 years.
“This Hajj season offers an invaluable opportunity to deepen our relations and address important Islamic matters,” Dr. Nawwab said. He expressed a strong desire to collaborate with Sierra Leone on Hajj-related issues, especially as the number of Sierra Leonean pilgrims continues to rise. He also underscored the potential for cultural and religious exchanges, including joint initiatives with international Quran reciters from both countries.
In response, Ambassador Koroma praised Iran’s ongoing efforts to unite the Islamic community and emphasised the importance of enhanced cooperation in facilitating the Ummah process. He reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and its support for Palestinian rights. The Ambassador also highlighted Sierra Leone’s role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and its dedication to global peace and African representation in international affairs.
Ambassador Koroma expressed President Julius Maada Bio’s recognition of Iran as a trusted partner, noting that while Iran has an embassy in Sierra Leone, his mission in Tehran aims to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and educational ties between the two countries.
A significant area of interest for Sierra Leone is agricultural development. Despite the country’s fertile land and favourable climate, food self-sufficiency remains a challenge. Ambassador Koroma suggested that Iran’s expertise in modern agricultural techniques could offer valuable solutions to this issue.
Education was another key focus, with Ambassador Koroma pointing out that sixteen Sierra Leonean students are currently studying in Iran. He proposed that expanding student exchange programs and scholarships could lay the foundation for stronger academic collaboration.
Ambassador Koroma also addressed the economic challenges faced by Sierra Leonean Muslims undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage. He called on Iran to provide support, noting that many pilgrims rely on the generosity of friendly Muslim countries to afford the sacred journey. He expressed hope that Iran’s expertise and assistance could enhance the Hajj experience for Sierra Leonean pilgrims.
Dr. Nawwab assured Ambassador Koroma of Iran’s readiness to support Sierra Leonean pilgrims, offering opportunities for student exchanges and scholarships. He encouraged further coordination between the two nations to ensure a well-organised Hajj mission and to build long-term cooperation in Islamic affairs.
This high-level meeting represents a significant milestone in strengthening ties between Sierra Leone and Iran, with both nations looking forward to deepening their cooperation in religion, education, agriculture, and diplomacy.
