By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a keynote address at the High-Level Event on Global Peace and Security, part of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio called for decisive global action to combat injustice and ensure equitable representation for all nations. The event, held on September 5, 2024, spotlighted the urgent need for reform in global decision-making bodies.
President Bio emphasized Africa’s pressing need for fair representation in key international platforms such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), citing the continent’s own experiences with conflict as a critical reason for this demand. He criticized the current global system for perpetuating inequities that erode both peace and security.
“The ongoing philosophy of perpetuating injustice and unfair treatment in favor of self-interest has not only distorted global peace but continues to undermine it,” President Bio asserted. He stressed that addressing these imbalances is essential for establishing a future marked by enduring peace and comprehensive security.
In his role as Chairman of the African Union’s Committee of Ten on UNSC Reform, President Bio reiterated Africa’s call for two permanent seats on the Security Council. He argued that Africa’s underrepresentation impairs the UNSC’s effectiveness in addressing international challenges.
“Ensuring fair representation for Africa will enhance the United Nations’ capacity to tackle global issues and promote a more just, equitable, and peaceful world,” he said.
President Bio concluded his address by urging world leaders to prioritize justice and fairness in their global agendas. He underscored that lasting peace and development can only be achieved through unity and respect for diversity, warning that divisions and unhealthy competition could lead to humanity’s downfall.
“We must champion unity in diversity, safeguarding the rights of the weak and the minority. Divisive and competitive practices threaten our collective future,” he concluded.
It could be recalled that on Wednesday September 4, 2024, during a bilateral meeting held just before the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the Chinese President, Xi Jinping, lauded Sierra Leone’s President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio, for his notable leadership and contributions to global peace, particularly recognizing his recent tenure as President of the United Nations Security Council.
During the meeting, Xi Jinping praised President Bio’s effective leadership of the African Union’s C-10 and reiterated China’s backing for Africa’s push to reform the UN Security Council. The Chinese leader expressed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Sierra Leone through various collaborative efforts.
President Xi outlined plans to enhance cooperation between the two nations in key areas such as agriculture, fisheries, mining, infrastructure development and security. He also announced a significant increase in Chinese development aid to Sierra Leone.
In his response, President Bio thanked Xi Jinping for the ongoing support and assistance, highlighting the positive developments in the bilateral relationship. He noted that Sierra Leone’s recent achievement of International Fish Export Certification would bolster trade between the two countries. President Bio also emphasized the need for continued efforts to address security challenges in the Sahel region.
“I want to assure you that Sierra Leone will continue to be a reliable partner and a steadfast friend to China,” President Bio affirmed.
Following their meeting, President Xi hosted a banquet for President Bio and his wife, Fatima Bio, along with other Heads of State, in honor of their arrival ahead of the FOCAC opening ceremony.
