In a press release dated 20th January, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Freetown, Sierra Leone, has announced the upcoming visit of Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, as part of her tour to Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, and Sierra Leone from the 21st to the 26th of January 2024.

During her visit to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield is set to meet with President Bio and other senior government officials to extend a warm welcome as Sierra Leone joins the UN Security Council. The agenda includes discussions on various bilateral and multilateral issues. The Ambassador will also engage with the government, opposition leaders, and the international community to address the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity.

The press release highlights the broader context of Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s tour. In Liberia, she will lead the U.S. Presidential Delegation to the Inauguration of president-elect Joseph Boakai, emphasizing the U.S. government’s commitment to partnering with the newly elected government. The visit applauds the Liberian people for successfully conducting free and fair elections, marking the country’s second democratic transfer of power since the civil war’s end in 2003.

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s itinerary in Liberia includes attending the inauguration ceremony, meeting with government officials from various administrations, engaging with emerging leaders and the business community, and delivering a keynote speech on democracy at the Liberia Chamber of Commerce. The speech aims to address threats to democracy across Africa and highlight the role of civilian-led democracies in delivering for their people.

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In Guinea-Bissau, the Ambassador will meet with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló to discuss regional security and reinforce the commitment to expanding bilateral relations. The visit to Sierra Leone will involve meetings with President Julius Maada Bio and other key officials to discuss bilateral and multilateral issues. In Freetown, she plans to engage with the government, opposition leaders, and the international community on the ongoing implementation of the Agreement for National Unity. The Sierra Leone Peace Museum will also be on the agenda.

The overarching goal of Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield’s trip is to advance the Biden Administration’s objectives for Africa. This includes reinforcing commitments to democracy, empowering women and youth, promoting regional peace and security, and supporting inclusive and sustainable development. The visit underscores the United States’ dedication to fostering positive relationships with African nations and contributing to the continent’s growth and stability.