Sierra Leone has reinforced its growing presence on the global diplomatic stage following a high-level engagement between President Julius Maada Bio and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, held on Monday 2 February 2026 in Abu Dhabi. The meeting took place on the margins of the World Governments Summit 2026 and focused on advancing strong bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Sierra Leone.
At the centre of the engagement was the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), witnessed by both leaders. The agreement is regarded as a major milestone in UAE–Sierra Leone relations, opening new pathways for trade, investment and private-sector collaboration. It is expected to significantly enhance economic cooperation while positioning Sierra Leone as an increasingly attractive destination for international investors.
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, both presidents welcomed the constructive high-level engagement between their countries and highlighted the World Governments Summit as a vital global platform for dialogue on governance, development and international cooperation. They emphasized the importance of expanding economic ties across priority sectors, including artificial intelligence, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, logistics and healthcare. Discussions also explored prospects for strengthened defence and military cooperation as part of a broader strategic partnership.
President Bio welcomed the UAE’s launch of the USD 1 billion “AI for Development” initiative, announced at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg in November 2025, describing it as a timely intervention capable of supporting Africa’s development priorities through innovation and digital transformation. Both leaders affirmed the initiative’s potential to accelerate inclusive growth and technological advancement across the continent.
Beyond economic diplomacy, Sierra Leone’s leadership in health governance was also highlighted during President Bio’s engagements in Dubai. In discussions with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Sierra Leonean leader was commended for his role in mobilizing political will during Gavi’s replenishment process, which secured a historic US$10 billion. Sierra Leone’s progress in achieving over 90 percent routine immunization coverage, expanding vaccine access and responding effectively to recent health crises was cited as evidence of governance driven by strong political commitment.
Looking ahead, President Bio announced a “300 Days of Activism” initiative focused on maternal, newborn and child survival, reaffirming health as a presidential priority and a cornerstone of national development.
The two leaders also exchanged views on key regional and global issues, reaffirming their shared commitment to the principles of international law and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The UAE praised Sierra Leone’s constructive role within regional and international forums, including the Economic Community of West African States and underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing common challenges.
On Sudan, both presidents condemned atrocities against civilians by the warring parties and stressed that the primary responsibility for ending the conflict rests with those parties. They called for an immediate and unconditional humanitarian truce, unhindered humanitarian access throughout the country and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. The leaders further emphasized the need for accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and the formation of a civilian-led Government independent of the warring factions.
Climate action, water security and the global energy transition also featured prominently in the discussions. Sierra Leone aligned itself with the 2026 African Union theme on sustainable water availability and sanitation, expressing appreciation for the UAE’s continued engagement with Africa on sustainable development initiatives. Both sides welcomed the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal, as an opportunity to accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6.
The meeting concluded with both Governments pledging to maintain close coordination and deepen cooperation, expressing confidence that the evolving partnership will elevate UAE–Sierra Leone relations to new levels of strategic and economic collaboration.
