President of Sierra Leone Dr. Julius Maada Bio, upon his arrival in New York, expressed optimism for productive engagement ahead of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate as he assumes the role of President of the Council for the month of August.

President Bio stated that he is looking forward to presiding over several critical sessions and he is confident that their efforts will yield significant and impactful outcomes.

President Bio emphasized on the significance of the opportunity for Sierra Leone which he describe as a small West African nation.

“Today is truly a landmark moment in our history as we begin our presidency of the United Nations Security Council,” he remarked. “Our goal is to facilitate meaningful dialogue rooted in mutual trust and respect, aiming for peaceful and sustainable resolutions to conflicts and addressing global challenges collectively.”

President Bio also underscored the importance of advocating for UNSC reforms during his presidency, particularly concerning Africa’s representation.

“We will work closely with the P5 and regional groups to vigorously pursue Security Council reform, ensuring the inclusive and equitable representation of Africa’s 1.2 billion people. Seventy-nine years after the founding of the United Nations, it is time to correct this historical injustice.”

The President is scheduled to receive a comprehensive briefing today, Saturday, 10th August 2024, from Sierra Leone’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the United Nations, Michael Imran Kanu Esq, and Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Alhaji Timothy Kabba.

On Monday, 12 August, President Bio will lead his signature event, the UNSC Debate on “Addressing the Historical Injustice and Enhancing Africa’s Effective Representation in the UN Security Council.”