By: Isatu Yollah Bangura, Intern
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has reaffirmed the strong and cordial relationship between Sierra Leone and Guinea, describing the two neighbouring countries as “one” and pledging continued cooperation to improve services for citizens in both countries.
The Deputy Minister made the statement while reflecting on a recent high-level visit to Guinea led by Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh and a Sierra Leonean delegation.
She expressed appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio for once again entrusting her with the responsibility to serve the people of Sierra Leone.
She also highlighted recent efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to reposition Sierra Leone’s Foreign Service and improves the quality of services provided to Sierra Leoneans around the world.
According to the Deputy Minister, the Ministry recently held its inaugural meeting with Sierra Leone’s diplomatic missions worldwide to establish a clear direction for the country’s foreign policy and international engagements.
She said the Ministry has identified four key priorities that will guide its work both domestically and in its engagements with countries, including Guinea.
Reflecting on the visit to Guinea, the Deputy Minister said the Sierra Leonean delegation was impressed by the warmth and cordiality demonstrated by Guinean authorities.
She disclosed that upon their arrival, the Guinean Prime Minister invited the delegation to attend the launch of Guinea’s new foreign policy, an event that was not originally included in the delegation’s programme.
She described the invitation as a demonstration of the close relationship between the two neighbouring countries.
The Deputy Minister further explained that the delegation later held discussions with officials from Guinea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside representatives from various institutions, on issues of mutual interest and concern to both countries.
“I was very impressed, and I have doubled assurance that Guinea and Sierra Leone is one,” she said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the longstanding partnership between the two countries.
She assured Sierra Leoneans living in Guinea that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would continue working to ensure they receive the necessary consular services and support.
She added that the Ministry would continue to protect the interests and welfare of Sierra Leoneans wherever they are in the world.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relations with Guinea and ensuring that citizens of both countries benefit from continued cooperation and partnership.