By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone’s Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, has held a high-level meeting with Babakov Alexander Mikhailovich, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening legislative and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The engagement, which took place on the sidelines of the 2025 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, focused on establishing robust mechanisms for inter-parliamentary cooperation, strategic sector collaboration, and joint responses to global challenges.
Both delegations emphasized the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy in international relations, particularly among nations of the Global South. The meeting aimed to enhance direct dialogue between lawmakers and foster mutual legislative support in key areas such as governance, economic policy, and democratic oversight.
During a panel discussion titled “Shaping a Just and Sustainable World Order by Strengthening the Shared Values of the World Majority Countries,” Hon. Nyuma highlighted the critical role of legislative collaboration in building stronger bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
“Sierra Leone and Russia have historically maintained cordial relations, marked by mutual respect and shared interests in economic growth and stability. Both nations are committed to addressing global challenges collaboratively. Parliamentary diplomacy presents a unique avenue to deepen these ties and align legislative efforts for mutual benefit,” Hon. Nyuma stated.
Key discussion points included the development of a roadmap for sustained dialogue between both parliaments, the exchange of best practices in policymaking, and legislative strategies to attract foreign direct investment. Identified areas for expanded cooperation include: Education, energy, health, agriculture, mining and information Technology
Both sides agreed to draft and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the inter-parliamentary partnership and establish a joint working group to oversee implementation. They also committed to organizing follow-up meetings to evaluate progress and refine collaboration strategies.
Global and regional security issues were also discussed. Hon. Nyuma and Mr. Babakov underscored the vital role of parliaments in promoting peace, conflict resolution, and the protection of human rights and democratic values.
In addition, the meeting addressed joint legislative responses to pressing global issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and public health emergencies. Both parties agreed on the importance of enhanced cooperation within multilateral frameworks, including the United Nations.
In a separate diplomatic engagement, Hon. Nyuma met with the Russian Federation’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Africa and the Middle East, Mr. Mikhail Bogdanov. He conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio and expressed Sierra Leone’s appreciation for Russia’s support in various sectors, including: Human capital development, educational scholarships, provision of dump trucks and COVID-19 vaccine assistance.
Mr. Bogdanov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to reopening its embassy in Freetown and to deepening collaboration on international peace, multilateral diplomacy, and regional development.
The Sierra Leonean delegation included His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Julius Mattai, Director General of the National Minerals Agency Alhaji Hadji Dabo, and other senior officials.
Reflecting on the engagements, Hon. Nyuma emphasized the central role of legislatures in national development:
“I encourage my colleagues to embrace a strong parliamentary dimension to support Sierra Leone’s progress in governance, transparency, and accountability. When Parliament holds the government accountable, the people become stronger, and democracy itself gains ground in the country.”
The outcomes of the meetings are expected to lay a solid foundation for future cooperation not only between Sierra Leone and Russia but also among other nations seeking to elevate parliamentary diplomacy as a key tool in addressing shared global challenges.