A high-level Indian parliamentary delegation, led by H.E. Shri Shrikant Eknath Shinde, is in Sierra Leone on a two-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing global cooperation against terrorism.
The visit follows the deadly April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 civilian lives. As part of India’s diplomatic outreach, the delegation—comprising members from across India’s political spectrum—has already visited the UAE and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Liberia as its next stop.
In Freetown, the Indian lawmakers engaged top Sierra Leonean officials, including the Vice President, Speaker of Parliament, Foreign Minister, Deputy Minister of Defence, and the National Security Coordinator. The meetings focused on enhancing collaboration on security, development, and international peace.
At a press briefing on arrival, Shri Shinde emphasized the need for a united global stance on terrorism, describing the Pahalgam attack as “an assault on humanity.” He called for zero tolerance against terrorism and stronger partnerships among democratic nations.
The delegation also plans to meet the Indian diaspora and members of the Sierra Leonean press, reaffirming India’s commitment to both citizen welfare and peaceful international cooperation.
India and Sierra Leone enjoy longstanding ties rooted in mutual respect, democratic values, and development cooperation. The visit is expected to deepen strategic engagement between the two nations.
By John Karim
