By Foday Moriba Conteh
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, led a four-member delegation to a two-day Ministerial Dialogue held on Monday on July 22, 2024 at the EJS Ministerial Complex. Organized by Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event focused on enhancing the operations of the Mano River Union (MRU).
In his opening remarks, Timothy Kabba reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to the strategic goals of the MRU, highlighting the Union’s resilience despite facing civil wars, coups, and pandemics. The dialogue concentrated on trade, peace, security, and economic integration within the MRU.
The Minister emphasized President Bio’s legislative progress in promoting women’s rights and discussed shared bilateral ties and the sub-regional development agenda, particularly concerning climate change challenges.
He stressed the importance of mobilizing sustainable funding and financial management for the MRU’s success in fostering regional cooperation and development. Addressing the issue of funding, Timothy Kabba called for accountability and transparency within the MRU Secretariat to ensure proper management of resources.
Liberian President, Joseph Boakai, in his keynote address, underscored the need for fair economic cooperation and harmonization, particularly in agriculture, maritime, forestry, customs, and telecommunications. He urged member states to recommit to the MRU objectives established 51 years ago by Sierra Leone and Liberia. President Boakai also highlighted the critical role of the MRU in shaping trade and ensuring economic viability, calling for a review of security arrangements to enhance coordination and development.
Liberian Foreign Minister, Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti ,welcomed the delegates and thanked President Boakai for his unwavering commitment to the Union. She praised the partners supporting the MRU and emphasized the need for strong financial contributions and partnerships for development.
Representing the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Morocco Agency for International Cooperation, reiterated Morocco’s unwavering support for growth and sustainability in the MRU.
The Sierra Leonean delegation included Brig. Gen. George M. Bangura, Deputy Minister Kadiatu Allie, Dr. Victoria M. Sulimani, Dr. David S. Yambasu and Safae Ndomahina.
The Ministerial Dialogue in Monrovia stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Sierra Leone and its regional partners in advancing the objectives of the Mano River Union.
