President Julius Maada Bio on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, received letters of credence from five newly accredited envoys at State House in Freetown, in a significant diplomatic ceremony underscoring Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and economic relations with key international partners.
The ambassadors, representing the Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Mexico, were formally presented to the President by Timothy Musa Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, during the ceremony held at State House.
In his remarks on behalf of the Russian Federation, Ambassador Andrei Stolyarov described Sierra Leone and Russia as longstanding partners and commended the Government’s notable progress in key sectors, including education, infrastructure, healthcare and agriculture. He reaffirmed his country’s readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation and further consolidate diplomatic ties.
Speaking for Iran, Ambassador Javad Deghan Haghighi Lotfabadi expressed strong support for the Government’s flagship Feed Salone initiative, while also commending President Bio’s leadership within ECOWAS, particularly his efforts toward promoting regional peace and security.
Representing Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Saud Mushabab Al Musaed praised the swift establishment of his country’s diplomatic presence in Freetown and reiterated a firm commitment to expanding cooperation grounded in mutual respect and shared benefits.
High Commissioner Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood of Pakistan highlighted the enduring historical ties between Sierra Leone and Pakistan, pointing to ongoing academic and technical exchanges as evidence of the growing partnership. He also lauded President Bio’s influential leadership role within the sub-region.
Also presenting her credentials, Ambassador Norma Ang Sanchez of Mexico reaffirmed her country’s commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and broadening bilateral engagement with Sierra Leone.
Responding, President Bio warmly welcomed the five envoys and formally accepted their credentials, reaffirming Sierra Leone’s longstanding and cordial relations with their respective countries. He stressed that stronger international partnerships remain essential to advancing the country’s national development priorities, boosting economic growth and promoting shared prosperity.
The credential ceremony marks another important milestone in Sierra Leone’s expanding diplomatic outreach and reflects the Government’s continued commitment to international cooperation, mutual respect and sustainable development.
