State House, Freetown, Tuesday, 8 October 2024 – His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio officially received letters of credence from three distinguished diplomats at the State House Credential Room.
The diplomats included Ms. Josephine Gauld LVO, the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Sierra Leone; Madam Claudiana A. Cole, the High Commissioner of The Gambia; and Jacek Jankowski, the Ambassador of the European Union (EU). Each representative expressed a strong commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Sierra Leone.
EU Ambassador Jacek Jankowski extended congratulations from the European Commission and affirmed his readiness to collaborate closely with President Bio’s administration on developmental initiatives.
“The EU and Sierra Leone have historically maintained a strong relationship, and this pledge signals continued collaboration in key areas,” he remarked.
As she presented her credentials, Claudiana A. Cole, High Commissioner of The Gambia, conveyed warm regards from President Adama Barrow. She highlighted her commitment to nurturing a positive and cooperative relationship between Sierra Leone and The Gambia, rooted in mutual respect and solidarity. She also recognized the achievements of her predecessor and pledged to further advance these ties.
Ms. Josephine Gauld LVO, the United Kingdom’s new High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, following Ms. Lisa Chesney MBE’s tenure, congratulated President Bio on Sierra Leone’s recent election as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
She reaffirmed the UK’s dedication to enhancing their already strong relationship with Sierra Leone, particularly in areas of shared interests and global collaboration.
In response, President Bio warmly welcomed the diplomats and accepted their credentials. He expressed his pleasure with the strong ties Sierra Leone has with the United Kingdom, The Gambia, and the European Union, emphasizing the significance of ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The President reiterated his commitment to working with each representative to further strengthen their respective partnerships, ensuring mutual benefits for all involved.