By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, is currently in Sierra Leone on a diplomatic visit and while in the country will hold series of discussions with various stakeholders starting on Wednesday, 24th January, 2024. She will also engage with President Julius Maada Bio and other Senior Government officials to extend a warm welcome back to the UN Security Council.
Her discussions will cover a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues and in Freetown, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will meet with government officials, opposition leaders, and the international community to assess the ongoing implementation of the Agreement for National Unity.
She will also visit the Sierra Leone Peace Museum, fostering discussions on shared priorities between Sierra Leone and the United States, including women and youth empowerment, climate change, and health.
Prior to her coming to Sierra Leone, the American Ambassador’s diplomatic journey included Guinea Bissau and Liberia according to a Press Release issued on January 20, 2024 and commenced on January 21 to end on the 26, 2024.
The highlight of her visit includes leading the U.S. Presidential Delegation to the Inauguration of President-elect His Excellency, Joseph Boakai in Liberia. The trip aims to underscore the United States’ commitment to collaborating with the newly elected Liberian Government. It also recognizes the Liberian people for their role in facilitating free, fair, and peaceful elections, marking the country’s second democratic transfer of power since the conclusion of the civil war in 2003.
During her stay in Monrovia, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield actively participated in the inauguration ceremony, holding meetings with officials from various Liberian administrations, engaging with emerging leaders, the business community, and expressing support for Liberian peacekeepers. The Ambassador delivered a keynote speech on democracy at the Liberia Chamber of Commerce, drawing attention to threats faced by democracies across Africa and emphasizing how civilian-led governments can deliver for their citizens. Notably, she served as Ambassador to Liberia from 2008 to 2012.
In Guinea-Bissau, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield met with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló to discuss regional security and reaffirm the United States’ dedication to expanding bilateral relations.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s diplomatic tour aligns with the Biden Administration’s objectives for Africa, emphasizing commitments to democracy, the empowerment of women and youth, promotion of regional peace and security, and the advancement of inclusive and sustainable development. The visit underscores the United States’ dedication to fostering strong diplomatic ties and partnerships with nations across the African continent.
