Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has arrived in New York to preside over a High-Level Debate on United Nations Security Council Reform.

This unprecedented debate is among the key initiatives under Sierra Leone’s presidency of the UN Security Council, which began on August 1st 2024.

After 53 years absence, Sierra Leone’s assumption of the UN Security Council presidency marks a momentous occasion. For the month of August, Sierra Leone will steer the Council’s agenda, preside over meetings, and navigate any international crises that may arise in collaboration with other members of Council.

This prestigious role follows Sierra Leone’s successful attainment of a non-permanent seat on the Security Council, effective from January 1, 2024.

President Bio will also engage in a series of high-level bilateral consultations. These will include a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Dr Dennis Francis, the President of the General Assembly.

His Excellency will also inaugurate the Sierra Leone Peace Exhibition at the United Nations curated through the Sierra Leone Peace Museum and organized by Sierra Leone’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations.