Dubai, UAE – February 2, 2026: In a move set to bolster economic ties between Africa and the Middle East, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have formalized a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a pivotal advancement in bilateral relations.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the upcoming World Governments Summit 2026, which kicks off tomorrow in Dubai under the theme “Shaping Future Governments.”
The summit gathers global leaders, international organizations, and private sector innovators to tackle pressing worldwide issues.
President Bio, who arrived in the UAE yesterday at the invitation of Sheikh Mohamed, is slated to participate in high-level discussions and plenary sessions during the three-day event from February 3 to 5.
The CEPA signing ceremony took place at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, where UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Trade and Industry Ibrahim Alpha Sesay put pen to paper.
This pact aims to reduce trade barriers, stimulate investment, and foster private sector partnerships in critical areas including agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, and technology.
Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the deal’s significance, stating on X: “Today I was joined by President Julius Maada Bio to witness the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between our nations. This CEPA reflects our shared aim to elevate trade and investment cooperation between the UAE and Sierra Leone while delivering lasting prosperity for our peoples.”
Echoing this sentiment, President Bio shared: “On the margins of the World Governments Summit 2026, I had a productive conversation with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan… We witnessed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and committed to strengthening cooperation across vital sectors.”
UAE officials project the agreement will double non-oil trade between the two countries, building on the $153 million recorded in 2025.
This aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to expand developmental partnerships across Africa, emphasizing mutual growth and sustainability.
The partnership underscores Sierra Leone’s rising profile in global forums, with President Bio’s visit including bilateral engagements to explore further collaboration opportunities. As the World Governments Summit unfolds, this CEPA could serve as a model for similar agreements, promoting economic resilience amid evolving international dynamics.
