By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and concurrently accredited to the Holy See, Philip Bob Jusu, has formally presented his Letters of Credence to His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, during an official ceremony held at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
The credential presentation officially marks Ambassador Philip Bob Jusu’s accreditation to the Holy See, further strengthening diplomatic relations between Sierra Leone and the Vatican. The ceremony formed part of a broader engagement involving ambassadors from eight countries who gathered to formally assume their diplomatic responsibilities.
Addressing the newly accredited diplomats, Pope Leo XIV delivered a message centred on peace, dialogue and global cooperation ahead of Pentecost. The Holy Father called on the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the diplomats’ respective assignments, urging them to pursue diplomacy anchored on sincerity, mutual respect and peaceful engagement among nations.
In a solemn but compelling address, the Pope stressed the importance of dialogue grounded in honesty and clarity of language, emphasizing that words faithful to reality remain essential in dispelling misunderstanding and promoting trust. He encouraged the ambassadors to make their diplomatic missions instruments of mutual understanding, peace and constructive engagement while working closely with the Holy See to strengthen cooperation among nations.
Ambassador Philip Bob Jusu was accompanied to the ceremony by members of his delegation and family, including Deputy Ambassador, Asmaa James, Head of Chancery, Jonathan Las-Lamin and Information Attaché, Betty Milton.
The presentation of credentials marks another milestone in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement with the Holy See, reinforcing the country’s commitment to international dialogue, cooperation and peaceful relations with global partners.
