Freetown, Sierra Leone – November 19, 2024
In a landmark moment for West African regional cooperation, Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio warmly welcomed Liberia’s newly elected President, Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., during a working visit to Freetown. This meeting reinforced the commitment of both nations to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen collaboration within the Mano River Union (MRU).
A Warm Reception and Shared Aspirations
President Bio hailed President Boakai as a “big brother” and extended congratulations on his election victory, commending the Liberian people for their trust in his leadership. Highlighting the deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations, he emphasized the vast opportunities for economic collaboration, particularly in trade and agriculture.
Recognizing President Boakai’s focus on agriculture as a tool for combating food insecurity and poverty, President Bio underscored Sierra Leone’s similar commitment through its Feed Salone Initiative, a sustainable farming program designed to bolster food security and create jobs.
“As neighbors with open borders, Sierra Leone and Liberia are uniquely positioned to lead efforts in strengthening sub-regional cooperation, especially in border security,” President Bio noted. He also expressed gratitude to Liberia for supporting Sierra Leone’s successful bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Advancing Collaboration
To build on their shared vision, President Bio proposed inter-ministerial exchanges to foster knowledge-sharing and strengthen ties. He highlighted his administration’s achievements in human capital development, gender empowerment, and economic growth as areas of mutual learning.
President Boakai, in his response, praised the progress Sierra Leone has made under President Bio’s leadership, citing infrastructure improvements as evidence of development. “I chose to travel by road to witness firsthand the remarkable strides your administration has achieved, particularly the improved road networks connecting sub-regional communities,” he remarked.
He acknowledged the historic connections between the two countries, noting that many Liberian leaders, including his cabinet members, received their education in Sierra Leone. Stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence, President Boakai declared, “The peace in Sierra Leone is peace in Liberia,” and reiterated Liberia’s commitment to regional stability.
Joint Commitments
The discussions culminated in a joint communiqué reaffirming both nations’ dedication to addressing shared challenges. Key highlights included:
- Combating hunger and unemployment through innovative agricultural programs.
- Promoting peaceful democratic transitions within the MRU and ECOWAS regions.
- Enhancing cross-border cooperation for economic growth, cultural exchange, and harmonious coexistence.
Additionally, both leaders emphasized the need for strategic partnerships to harness the agricultural potential of their fertile lands, laying the groundwork for sustainable development.
Ministerial Insights
At a subsequent press briefing, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Madame Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and Sierra Leone’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mrs. Francess Peagie Alghali, elaborated on the bilateral talks.
Madame Nyanti highlighted the shared agricultural and trade priorities, describing the partnership as a “turning point for regional integration.” Mrs. Alghali emphasized the importance of continued dialogue, stating, “Through strengthened bilateral relations, we are paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous future for our people.”
Both ministers reiterated their commitment to implementing the agreements and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
A Step Toward Regional Unity
The meeting between Presidents Bio and Boakai is a significant milestone in advancing regional unity and collaboration. It underscores the vital role of the Mano River Union in promoting sustainable development, peace, and prosperity in We