Saudi Arabia celebrated its National Day in Sierra Leone for the first time on September 23, 2024, marking a milestone in over four decades of diplomatic relations.

Held at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, the event highlighted the growing ties between the two nations.

Ali Ibrahim Alheji, Head of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Sierra Leone, extended congratulations to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed, emphasizing the strong diplomatic and cultural relationship between the countries.

The embassy, established in Freetown in December 2023, has made significant progress, largely due to the support from the Sierra Leonean government.

Saudi Arabia’s National Day, typically celebrated within its borders, took on added significance with this joint celebration. Alheji highlighted the cooperation between the nations in organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Islamic Military Counter-Terrorism Coalition.

He also commended President Bio’s participation in the 2023 Saudi-African Summit, which led to agreements like the Air Service and Political Cooperation Agreements.

Alheji reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for Sierra Leone’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council and their role in facilitating the annual Hajj pilgrimage, providing scholarships for 100 Sierra Leonean pilgrims in 2025.

Saudi Arabia has also supported Sierra Leone with financial grants during critical times, including the Ebola epidemic, and continues to invest in educational and healthcare projects.

Deputy Minister Frances Algahali praised Saudi Arabia’s contributions to sectors such as education and health, recognizing their solidarity in addressing global challenges like the Israel-Palestine conflict and climate change.

She reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to democracy and expressed hope for further strengthening bilateral ties.

This historic celebration symbolizes the deepening of diplomatic relations and mutual respect, setting the stage for future cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Sierra Leone.