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The Sierra Leone Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mrs. Francess Piagie Alghali, held high-level bilateral discussions with the French Minister Delegate for Francophone and International Partnerships, Éléonore Caroit, strengthening cooperation across security, economic, cultural, and diplomatic sectors.
The said meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Europe in Paris during the 9th World Congress Against the Death Penalty, reaffirming the growing partnership between the two nations.
During the Engagement, both sides reviewed the positive bilateral trajectory, emphasising Sierra Leone’s continued contribution to international peace and security, including planned troop deployment cooperation in Haiti. France commended Sierra Leone’s global peace engagement while Sierra Leone reaffirmed its commitment to international stability and multilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, both noted increasing French company presence in development initiatives, including major infrastructure and education projects. Particular reference involved Matière Group constructing key bridges, including Mabang Bridge in Kambia District and Tompari Bridge in Karene District, strengthening national connectivity, facilitating trade, and supporting inclusive economic growth.
The Discussions highlighted the upcoming establishment of a new French school in Freetown, the Association Ecole Française de Freetown, contributing positively to educational development and people-to-people ties.
Furthermore, the meeting underscored the importance of strengthening cultural and linguistic cooperation. France welcomed Sierra Leone’s proactive French language promotion with Sierra Leone calling for expanded French language education access beyond the secondary level, meeting growing youth population needs.
Sierra Leone further called for revitalising historical academic and cultural exchanges, including Alliance Française cooperation and university-level partnerships like Fourah Bay College. France responded positively, affirming its commitment and following up on strengthening cultural and educational programmes and expanding French language cooperation in Sierra Leone.
Both sides agreed on reinforcing oversight, institutional capacity, and international cooperation to ensure maritime security and safeguard global trade routes.
The meeting covered regional security challenges in the West African Sahel, focusing on the importance of inclusive dialogue with all regional actors, including ECOWAS member and non-member states. Both sides discussed a potential future state visit by President Julius Maada Bio to France.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepening Sierra Leone-France relations, strengthening cooperation in security, trade, education, and culture, and in regional stability, and maintaining close collaboration on global challenges.
