In a proactive move aimed at fortifying the enduring relationship between Sierra Leone and Russia, a high-level delegation from Sierra Leone embarked on a strategic mission, paying a courtesy visit to His Excellency Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in the Russian Federation.
Facilitated by His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, the delegation expressed profound gratitude for the continuous support extended by the Russian government to Sierra Leone.
Ambassador Yongawo conveyed heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the government and the people of Sierra Leone for the unwavering assistance provided by Russia during critical times, notably during the Ebola crisis that devastated several West African support provided in support of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also acknowledged Russia’s significant contribution of 100 dump trucks as a symbol of the robust friendship shared between the two nations.
Dr. Wurie, representing Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, emphasized the delegation’s commitment to further bolster existing partnerships, highlighting the multifaceted dialogue spanning various ministries. Notably, Dr. Wurie recognized Russia’s pivotal role in the education sector, with over 2,000 Sierra Leonean students pursuing studies in Russia over the 62 years of bilateral relations.
The Hon Minister further highlighted ongoing educational endeavours, citing over 100 students currently enrolled in diverse academic pursuits in Russian universities. Dr. Wurie urged continued collaboration, especially in scholarships for middle workforce training.
Highlighting President Julius Maada Bio’s strategic priorities, Minister Wurie delineated the five areas: ‘Feed Salone’ – weigh focus on mechanizing agriculture, Human Capital Development, Job Creation, Public Sector Reform, and the advancement of ICT and Infrastructure. She emphasized the desire to tap into Russia’s expertise, particularly in mechanical farming, energy, ICT, and human capital development, aligning them with Sierra Leone’s development goals.
In a poignant moment, the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources, Hon. Julius Daniel Mattai, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception, reminiscent of a homecoming. Recalling his academic pursuit in the former Soviet Union from 1986 to 1992, fulfilling his dream of becoming a geologist, he expressed profound honour in serving as the Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources almost three decades after his educational stint in Russia.
The visit underscored the mutual determination to strengthen ties and collaborate on critical sectors, fostering a sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership between Sierra Leone and Russia. As both nations continue to build on this trajectory, the prospect of shared advancements and growth appears promising.
In response, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Special Representative of the President of Russia to the Middle East and Africa, His Excellency Mikhail Bogdanov, pledged Russia’s continued partnership and collaboration with Sierra Leone in various sectors such as Education, Energy, Infrastructure, and Agriculture.
Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr. Bogdanov promised Russian support in training Sierra Leonean students in Professional and Technical Vocational courses to build up the middle workforce for the 21st-century job market.
Other members of the Sierra Leone delegation included: Mr. Hadji Dabo, Director General of the National Minerals Agency (NMA); Mr. Peter Bangura, Director of Mines; Mr. Prince Cuffey, Director of Geological Survey; Mr. Joseph Lebbie, Deputy Director of Geological Survey; Madam Jariatu Bah, Communications Manager; and Mrs. Wulaimatu Conteh, First Secretary at the Republic of Sierra Leone Embassy.
The meeting concluded with hopes for deepening cooperation between the two nations informed by mutual understanding and respect.