Freetown, Sierra Leone – On the occasion of Sierra Leone’s 65th Independence Day, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have extended warm congratulations to President Julius Maada Bio and the people of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
In an official message issued by the British High Commission in Freetown, the British monarch reflected on the enduring partnership between the two nations and the shared values that continue to unite them within the Commonwealth.
The full text of the message, released by the British High Commission, reads:
“Dear Mr President,
On the occasion of your sixty-fifth Independence Day, my wife and I send our warmest congratulations to you and to the people of The Republic of Sierra Leone.
It is with sincere appreciation that I reflect upon the enduring partnership between our two nations and the shared values that unite us within the Commonwealth. Our friendship is strengthened by the vibrant Sierra Leonean community in the United Kingdom, whose contributions enrich the fabric of our society. I remain deeply proud of the role our family of nations plays in fostering understanding, cooperation and opportunity across the globe, and I value Sierra Leone’s active contribution to this shared endeavour.
The Commonwealth’s rich diversity and the energy of its younger generations continue to inspire hope and progress. In these times of global uncertainty, our collective strength and unity are more vital than ever. I look forward to the opportunity for our nations to come together at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November, where we may reaffirm our shared commitments and chart a course for the future.
At a time of rapid global warming and destruction of natural habitats, and when the effects of climate change are increasingly evident, I commend Sierra Leone’s leadership and determination in driving international ambition for adaptation and resilience, and confronting environmental pressures on its people, ecosystems and prosperity. Sierra Leone’s efforts to advance renewable energy and protect and restore natural landscapes reflect a determination to build a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future for all.
My wife and I join in extending our very best wishes to you and to all Sierra Leoneans for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.
Charles R.”
The message highlights the strong bilateral ties between the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone, noting the positive contributions of the Sierra Leonean diaspora in the UK. King Charles also expressed pride in the Commonwealth’s role in promoting global cooperation.
The monarch specifically praised Sierra Leone’s efforts in addressing climate change, commending the country’s leadership in promoting adaptation, resilience, renewable energy, and environmental protection.
Sierra Leone marked its 65th Independence Anniversary on 27 April 2026, commemorating its independence from British colonial rule in 1961.
The British High Commission in Freetown shared the message as part of official celebrations, underscoring the continued friendship and partnership between the former colonial power and its former colony.
