Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has engaged his Canadian counterpart in high-level diplomatic discussions focusing on the deteriorating security situation in Haiti and Sierra Leone’s bid for a seat on the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The engagement took place on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda, where the two ministers explored areas of mutual interest and discussed opportunities to strengthen diplomatic and bilateral relations between Sierra Leone and Canada.
A major issue discussed during the meeting was the ongoing security crisis in Haiti, where persistent gang violence and instability continue to pose serious challenges to public safety, governance and the restoration of state authority.
Minister Swaray and his Canadian counterpart exchanged views on possible avenues for international cooperation, particularly efforts to advance the Gang Suppression Force initiative. The initiative is aimed at supporting Haiti’s security institutions, containing gang-related violence and creating conditions for the restoration of law and order.
The discussions highlighted the importance of sustained international engagement and coordinated efforts among partners in addressing Haiti’s security challenges and supporting the country’s path towards stability.
In addition to the Haiti security situation, Minister Swaray used the diplomatic engagement to seek Canada’s support for Sierra Leone’s candidature for a seat on the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.
Sierra Leone’s bid reflects the country’s ambition to strengthen its presence and representation within international judicial institutions and contribute to the promotion of international law, justice and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Support from Canada, a longstanding diplomatic partner, could further strengthen Sierra Leone’s campaign as it pursues greater representation in the international justice system.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for both ministers to review the longstanding relationship between their respective countries and explore practical ways of expanding cooperation across areas of shared interest.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening diplomatic relations, strengthening bilateral partnerships and working together on regional and international challenges requiring collective action.
The engagement forms part of Sierra Leone’s broader diplomatic efforts at CHOGM to strengthen international partnerships, advance its foreign policy priorities and promote the country’s interests within multilateral institutions.