By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The United States and Sierra Leone ambassadors to the United Nations are celebrating the outcomes of their recent diplomatic meeting, emphasizing the strength of their enduring partnership.
In a Press Briefing on Wednesday, January 31, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, shared the positive results of her visit to Sierra Leone, terming it as “incredibly productive” and “meaningful.” She highlighted significant meetings, including discussions with President Julius Maada Bio, addressing shared priorities for the UN Security Council, focusing on conflict resolution in Sudan and the situation in Niger.
During their meeting on January 25, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and President Bio delved into the crucial topic of UN Security Council reform and Sierra Leone’s commitment to upholding the National Unity Agreement.
In response, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the United States, Sidique Abou-Bakarr Wai, emphasized the enduring strength of the U.S.-Sierra Leone relationship. Ambassador Wai highlighted the United States as a vital development partner that significantly contributed to Sierra Leone’s progress, even during the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Ambassador Wai expressed commitment to diplomacy and sustaining alliances, stating, “We are working together on separate initiatives. And that process will continue. And that’s the commitment that I know my president has towards the United States.”
Highlighting key outcomes of the visit, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield welcomed Sierra Leone’s return to the UN Security Council and announced the United States’ commitment of $1.5 million to support Sierra Leone’s electoral reform processes.
The funding aims to provide technical and legal assistance, strengthening Sierra Leone’s democratic processes and fostering civilian engagement. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield underscored the importance of raising awareness and ownership among everyday citizens.
Democracy and peace emerged as recurrent themes during the diplomatic engagements. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield discussed these issues with various West African leaders, leading to a significant announcement – the United States committed $1.5 million to support Sierra Leone’s electoral reform processes.
Peace and security were pivotal themes during the diplomatic engagements, aligning with broader efforts to empower AU missions in addressing Africa’s growing security challenges.
Ms. Thomas-Greenfield also addressed questions about the state of democracy in Sierra Leone, condemning the attempted coup and expressing the U.S.’s commitment to working with the Government to establish a path forward. The ambassador expressed support for President Bio’s call for national unity and emphasized continued US assistance, including the recent $1.5 million contribution to support the electoral reform process.
In conclusion, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s visit to Sierra Leone has not only reinforced diplomatic ties but also displayed the United States’ commitment to democracy, development, and peace in the region.
Both U.S. and Sierra Leone envoys conveyed their commitment to being perceived as cooperative and reliable partners, bilaterally and on the international stage, particularly at the UN Security Council.
