Freetown, Sierra Leone—On Tuesday, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone announced via social media that he had a “fruitful meeting” with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
The discussion focused on Africa’s ongoing push for UN Security Council reform, regional security in the Sahel, and Sierra Leone’s efforts to strengthen its democracy.
“Today, I engaged in a fruitful meeting with my friend and Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres. Our discussion centered around the next steps in Africa’s push for UN Security Council reform, Regional Security in the Sahel, and the strides made by Sierra Leone in strengthening its democracy,” President Bio stated.
The President also expressed his gratitude to Guterres, noting, “I extend my appreciation to the Secretary-General for backing Africa in addressing historical injustice and for his unwavering dedication to fostering peace and stability in the Sahel Region.”
As Sierra Leone continues its leadership of the UN Security Council for the month of August, Bio reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to advancing global equity, justice, and security.
“As Sierra Leone continues its leadership of the UN Security Council, it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing equity, justice, and ensuring global peace and security,” he emphasized.
Earlier, Secretary-General Guterres had endorsed President Bio’s call for Africa to gain a permanent seat on the Security Council, stressing the need for reforms to rectify the continent’s underrepresentation.
“The world has changed since 1945. But the composition of the Council, despite a few changes, has not kept pace,” Guterres remarked during a debate convened by Sierra Leone.
President Bio, aligning with the views of many African leaders, called for the continent to be granted two permanent seats on the Security Council, along with two additional non-permanent seats.
“The time for half-measures and incremental progress is over. Africa must be heard, and its demands for justice and equity must be met,” he asserted.
The UN Security Council, where permanent members China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States hold veto power, has long been criticized for its outdated structure, reflecting the geopolitical realities of a post-World War II era when much of Africa was still under colonial rule.
