US Ambassador Visits Sierra Leone to Discuss Security, Reforms And Shared Priorities

In a recent interview with VOA, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, shed light on the purpose of her visit to Sierra Leone.

Emphasizing multiple reasons for her trip, she noted that Sierra Leone had recently joined the Security Council as an elected member. As part of her engagement with new Council members, it was imperative for her to visit these countries and discuss their priorities on the international stage.

Acknowledging the recent coup attempt in Sierra Leone, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield underscored the need to unequivocally condemn the act. She expressed her commitment to establishing a positive working relationship with the government and engaging in discussions about their actions moving forward. This included the examination of the Commission set up to review the election and electoral process, which she remarked was progressing extraordinarily well.

During her visit, President Bio confirmed that he and Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield engaged in fruitful discussions. They explored strategies to enhance the longstanding bilateral and diplomatic relations between the United States and Sierra Leone. Additionally, the talks delved into President Bio’s government efforts to deepen democracy and promote peace and security in Sierra Leone, the ECOWAS region, and the continent at large.

President Bio affirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining shared priorities, including women and youth empowerment, health, climate change, and inclusive development. He stated, “My administration remains committed to sustaining our shared priorities.”

Sierra Leone eagerly anticipates collaborative efforts with the United States at the UN Security Council, aiming for the maintenance of international peace and security and advocating for Security Council reforms.