Freetown, November 19, 2024 – The Presidents of Sierra Leone and Liberia have reaffirmed their commitment to regional cooperation and development during an official working visit.
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, hosted Liberia’s newly elected President, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., from November 18th to 21st, 2024.
President Bio congratulated President Boakai on his election, expressing confidence in Liberia’s leadership under his tenure.
“Your election is a testament to the trust and hope the people of Liberia have placed in you,” President Bio remarked.
During their discussions, held in what was described as a “brotherly atmosphere,” the two leaders addressed a range of issues including political, economic, and security cooperation. They explored opportunities to strengthen the Mano River Union (MRU) and advance transformative initiatives, particularly in agriculture and food security.
President Boakai commended Sierra Leone’s flagship agricultural program, *Feed Salone*, for its ambitious goals. “This initiative showcases your commitment to revolutionizing agriculture and ensuring food security for your people,” he said.
In turn, President Bio lauded Liberia’s prioritization of agriculture as a means to create jobs and reduce poverty. The two leaders pledged to work together to combat hunger and develop agricultural opportunities across their nations, utilizing the fertile lands of the subregion.
The Presidents also discussed the democratic challenges facing the MRU and ECOWAS regions, stressing the need for peaceful democratic transitions to maintain regional stability. They emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation to foster peaceful coexistence, cultural exchange, and increased trade between Sierra Leone and Liberia.
On the international stage, President Boakai congratulated President Bio for Sierra Leone’s leadership at the United Nations, particularly in the Security Council and the African Union’s Committee of Ten (C10) on UN reform. President Bio reciprocated by endorsing Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2026-2027.
“Liberia’s voice is crucial in global peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts,” President Bio stated.
The visit concluded with President Boakai expressing his gratitude for the warm reception from President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone.
“Your hospitality reflects the enduring bond between our nations,” he said.
The joint communiqué was signed by Sierra Leone’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mrs. Francess Piagie Alghali, and Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti.
The visit underscored the shared aspirations of the two countries to strengthen their partnership, promote regional peace, and enhance development for the benefit of their peoples.
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