Sierra Leone Ambassador to Russia Stephan Yongawo Hosts Senegalese Counterpart

Senegal’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, His Excellency Ambassador Stephan Sylvain Sambou, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Ambassador Mohamed Yongawo, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation and Vice Dean of African Ambassadors in Moscow, on April 30, 2025.

Ambassador Sambou, newly appointed to his post in Moscow, met with Ambassador Yongawo to establish strong collaborative relations with colleagues in the diplomatic community.

During the meeting, Ambassador Yongawo stressed the longstanding cultural, political, and economic ties that unite the two nations. Both diplomats reaffirmed their commitment to promoting stability and cooperation within regional and international frameworks such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations.

This diplomatic engagement was informed by the fraternal ties between Senegal and Sierra Leone, two West African nations bound by shared values, cultural heritage, and a common vision for regional peace, security, and development.

Discussions during the courtesy call focused on areas of mutual interest, including bilateral cooperation in trade, education, cultural exchange, and economic development within their host and own countries. Both ambassadors stressed the importance of fostering diplomatic engagement as a means to address shared challenges and enhance the well-being of Senegalese and Sierra Leonean citizens residing in the Russian Federation.

Additionally, Ambassador Sambou expressed gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality shown by Ambassador Yongawo and the Sierra Leone Embassy in Moscow. He highlighted the significance of building partnerships rooted in mutual respect and the collective advancement of the African continent.

The two diplomats also reaffirmed their support for regional integration, the United Nations Security Council reform, and the advancement of the Common African Agenda. They agreed on the need for Africa-driven solutions to African challenges, underscoring the critical role of ECOWAS and other regional bodies in this pursuit.