President Dr. Julius Maada Bio received letters of credence from six newly accredited Ambassadors to the Republic of Sierra Leone during an official ceremony held at State House.
The new envoys include His Excellency Bob H. Sheriff, Ambassador of the Republic of Liberia; Her Excellency M’Brah Aya Georgette, Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire; His Excellency Patrick Joseph McManus, Ambassador of Ireland; His Excellency Dr. Pascal Richter, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany; His Excellency Dr. Farah Farah, Ambassador of the Republic of Lebanon; and His Excellency Mersole J. Mellejor, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines.
In his remarks, President Bio warmly welcomed the Ambassadors on behalf of the government and people of Sierra Leone and congratulated them on their appointments. He reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s enduring commitment to peace, stability, and mutual cooperation, while expressing optimism about deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with their respective nations.
“Despite geographical boundaries, our longstanding relationships remind us that we are brothers, sisters, and neighbours. My government remains firmly committed to advancing human capital development, achieving food security, and empowering women and youths,” the President stated.
President Bio commended the governments and peoples of Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire for their contributions to peace and stability within the Mano River Basin, particularly in promoting regional integration and cross-border trade. He further thanked Côte d’Ivoire for its collaboration in energy and economic cooperation and for its hospitality towards Sierra Leonean citizens.
Speaking on Sierra Leone’s ties with the different countries, the President highlighted shared commitment to education and human development, equipping young people with the skills and opportunities needed to contribute to national growth, and new avenues for cooperation to enhance people-to-people connections and mutual growth.
“There is so much we can do together to strengthen our bilateral relationships in ways that deliver win-win outcomes for our nations and our people,” President Bio affirmed.
On behalf of their respective governments, the ambassadors expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and pledged to strengthen cooperation with Sierra Leone by aligning their diplomatic efforts with the government’s development priorities.