By Kadiatu Sankoh
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, has held talks with the Parliamentary Secretary of Latvia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Riga, marking what the minister described as the first visit by a Sierra Leonean Foreign Minister to Latvia and the Baltic States.
During the meeting, Mohamed Rahman Swaray conveyed warm greetings from His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio and reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to international law, sovereign equality and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Accompanied by Professor Dr Charles Chernor Jalloh, the minister sought Latvia’s support for Professor Jalloh’s candidacy for election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027–2036 term.
The minister highlighted Professor Jalloh’s distinguished scholarship, extensive practical experience and commitment to judicial independence, describing these qualities as key strengths that make him an outstanding candidate for the international judicial position. Professor Jalloh’s candidacy has received the endorsement of both the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The discussions also provided an opportunity for Sierra Leone to congratulate Latvia on its election to the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term.
Both sides explored opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation in several areas, including international law, peacebuilding, education and digital governance, reflecting their shared interest in advancing international cooperation and effective multilateralism.
The visit represents an important milestone in Sierra Leone–Latvia relations, creating opportunities for deeper diplomatic engagement and cooperation based on mutual respect, shared values and a commitment to strengthening the multilateral system.
It also underscores Sierra Leone’s continued diplomatic engagement with international partners in support of its foreign policy priorities and the promotion of qualified candidates for key international institutions.