State House, Freetown, Tuesday 14 April 2026 – His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio has received letters of credence from five newly accredited envoys, reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic cooperation with key international partners.
The ambassadors representing the Russian Federation, Islamic Republic of Iran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and the United Mexican States, were formally presented to the President by Timothy Musa Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of his country, Ambassador Andrei Stolyarov described Sierra Leone and Russia as longstanding partners and commended the government’s progress in key sectors, including education, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture. He pledged to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Similarly, Ambassador Javad Deghan Haghighi Lotfabadi from Iran, expressed support for the government’s flagship “Feed Salone” initiative and praised President Bio’s leadership within ECOWAS, particularly in advancing regional peace and security.
Representing Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Saud Mushabab Al Musaed commended the swift establishment of his country’s diplomatic presence in Freetown and reaffirmed a commitment to expanding cooperation based on mutual respect and shared benefits.
High Commissioner Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood underscored the strong historical ties between Sierra Leone and Pakistan, highlighting ongoing academic and technical exchanges, while also commending the President’s regional leadership role.
Also presenting credentials, Ambassador Norma Ang Sanchez reaffirmed Mexico’s commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and enhancing bilateral relations.
In his response, President Bio warmly welcomed the envoys and formally accepted their credentials, reaffirming Sierra Leone’s longstanding and cordial relations with their respective countries. He emphasized that strengthened partnerships will remain critical to advancing national development priorities and fostering shared prosperity.
The ceremony marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s diplomatic engagement, reinforcing its commitment to international cooperation, mutual respect, and sustainable development.
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