By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In the lead-up to the first-ever Korea-Africa Summit, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone met with President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties. The two leaders also agreed to collaborate in education, food security and public health, key components of President Bio’s Big 5 Agenda.
This landmark meeting took place as both Sierra Leone and the Republic of Korea prepare to serve as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for 2024-2025. This dual membership is seen as an opportunity to enhance collaboration on global issues such as peace promotion and addressing emerging world challenges.
President Bio, accompanied by First Lady Fatima Maada Bio and a delegation, arrived in Seoul on May 30, 2024, for the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit. Scheduled for June 4-5 at the KINTEX International Exhibition Center in Ilsan and Seoul, the summit is themed, “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability and Solidarity.” The event marks a significant moment in the relationship between Africa and South Korea, bringing together African leaders and key international organizations to discuss sustainable development and global challenges.
The summit will feature a variety of sessions on topics such as business, agriculture, ICT, forestry, health security, tourism, and energy. It aims to foster collective strength and solidarity for sustainable development, addressing issues like climate change, food security, and supply chain stability.
Press Secretary Yusuf Keketoma Sandi emphasized that President Bio’s participation underscores Sierra Leone’s dedication to fostering international partnerships for sustainable and inclusive growth. He highlighted that the summit offers Sierra Leone a platform to advocate for increased investment and support for national development initiatives.
“The presence of First Lady Fatima Maada Bio highlights the importance of inclusive and equitable development, emphasizing the role of gender equality and the empowerment of women and children in achieving sustainable progress,” Sandi added.
The Korea-Africa Summit follows the 7th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC) Ministerial Conference held in September 2023, which aimed to strengthen Korea’s support for African development. This summit is expected to further cement Korea-Africa relations, promoting shared growth and cooperation.
