During a reception for African and American world leaders on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi hosted the First Couple of Sierra Leone, His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed the audience at the reception, welcoming the guests and thanking Hon. Nancy Pelosi for hosting America’s distinguished guests during the ongoing U.S. Africa Leaders Summit.

Earlier that day, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio had graciously agreed to President Joe Biden’s request for him to address the African & Diaspora Young Leaders Forum. During the Reception hosted by Nancy Pelosi, he was feted and highly commended by many in attendance for his Statements and for his effective leadership in so many facets of Sierra Leone.

As part of her extensive engagement, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio also received praise for her outstanding work on the local and international levels, particularly for her recent success in introducing a United Nations Resolution designating November 18 as a special day for Prevention and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence.

At the reception, Secretary Antony Blinken declared that the U.S. State Department is dedicated to cooperating with Congress to strengthen and modernize American alliances in Africa in the areas of economic prosperity, democracy and human rights, health, food security, and the environment.