By: Aminata Sesay
Members of Sierra Leone’s Parliament welcomed a visiting Indian delegation for a high-level dialogue focused on combating terrorism, enhancing regional and global security, and deepening bilateral ties between the two nations.
The Indian delegation, representing over 1.4 billion citizens, expressed deep appreciation to the Government and People of Sierra Leone for observing a moment of silence in Parliament in honor of the victims of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahelka, India. According to the head of the delegation, Honourable Shrikant Eknath Shimi, the attack claimed the lives of dozens of innocent civilians, including entire families, in what he described as a targeted assault driven by religious hatred.
In his remarks, Honourable Shimi highlighted the long history of terrorist violence India has endured, citing major incidents such as the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and recent tragedies. He stressed that terrorism is not an isolated national issue, but a global threat that requires unified international action.
“India has suffered long enough,” Shimi declared. “But we have also responded responsibly through targeted operations like Operation Sindhu, where nine terrorist camps were neutralized without harming civilians. This demonstrates our commitment to precision, peace, and justice.”
He further accused neighboring Pakistan of harboring terrorists and exploiting religion to incite unrest, adding:
“We come from the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautama Buddha. We seek peace, but our tolerance has limits. This is not just India’s fight it is a fight for humanity.”
In a show of solidarity, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Daniel Koroma, expressed firm support for India’s stand against terrorism. He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to global peace and its strong diplomatic ties with India.
“Supporting India is supporting ourselves,” Koroma stated. “India is our partner in healthcare, development, and trade. We are inseparable.”
He highlighted the recent opening of Sierra Leone’s embassy in India as a historic step in cementing long-standing relations.
“India has had a High Commission in Sierra Leone for over 15 years. Now, under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, Sierra Leone has reciprocated,” he said.
Hon. Koroma also pointed to Sierra Leone’s position on the United Nations Security Council, affirming that the country is ready to use its voice to support global efforts against terrorism and to advocate for peace.
The dialogue further explored shared values, including religious tolerance, democratic governance, and inclusive development. The Indian delegation commended Sierra Leone for its exemplary religious harmony, noting that its constitution ensures equal representation and respect for all faiths — a principle also deeply rooted in India’s pluralistic society.
“Despite being from different political parties and religions, today, we speak with one voice as Indians,” noted a member of the Indian delegation, referencing the unity displayed among the visiting parliamentarians.
The meeting concluded with mutual commitments to continue collaborating on healthcare, economic development, education, and international diplomacy. The Indian delegation acknowledged Sierra Leone’s support on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations, while Sierra Leonean lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations.
At a time of heightened global tension and insecurity, the India–Sierra Leone parliamentary dialogue stands out as a beacon of cross-continental solidarity—demonstrating the power of diplomacy, mutual respect, and a shared stand against extremism.