By Edna John
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has received letters of credence from five newly accredited ambassadors, reaffirming the country’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with international partners.
The envoys, representing Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Mexico, were presented at State House in Freetown by Foreign Affairs Minister Timothy Musa Kabba.
Speaking on behalf of his country, Russian Ambassador Andrei Stolyarov described Sierra Leone and Russia as longstanding partners and pledged to deepen cooperation across sectors including education, infrastructure, healthcare and agriculture.
Iran’s Ambassador Javad Deghan Haghighi Lotfabadi expressed support for the government’s “Feed Salone” initiative and praised Bio’s leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly in promoting regional peace and security.
Saudi Ambassador Saud Mushabab Al Musaed reaffirmed Riyadh’s commitment to expanding cooperation, while Pakistan’s High Commissioner Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood highlighted longstanding ties and ongoing academic and technical exchanges between the two countries.
Mexico’s Ambassador Norma Ang Sanchez also pledged to strengthen South-South cooperation and bilateral engagement.
In his response, Bio welcomed the envoys and formally accepted their credentials, stressing that stronger partnerships would be key to advancing Sierra Leone’s development priorities and shared prosperity.
The ceremony marks a step in Sierra Leone’s efforts to expand international cooperation and deepen diplomatic relations.
