By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
Ambassador-designate Philip Bob Jusu, accompanied by Deputy Ambassador Asmaa James and senior staff, recently made a significant visit to Brussels, where he met with Ambassador Ahmad Awad Sakine, the African Union (AU) Permanent Representative to the European Union (EU), and Ambassador Dedou P. Hemou of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Describing the visit as a “homecoming,” Ambassador Jusu reflected on his 11 years of dedicated service at the AU, including five years under Ambassador Sakine’s leadership. He underscored the importance of the AU office in Belgium as a crucial liaison between the EU and Africa, expressing his commitment to enhancing Sierra Leone’s presence in the Benelux region through collaborative efforts with the AU and other institutions.
Ambassador Sakine welcomed Jusu’s appointment, commending his dedication during his tenure at the AU. He highlighted Sierra Leone’s pivotal role in international affairs, particularly as Chair of the C-10 and the AU Peace and Security Council, and advised Jusu to brace for the challenges ahead concerning peace and security, migration, NATO, and the International Criminal Court (ICC).
At the ECOWAS office, Ambassador Hemou expressed confidence in Jusu’s leadership and experience, emphasizing the critical nature of his role in advancing West Africa’s interests. Ambassador Jusu reaffirmed the strong bond between Sierra Leone and ECOWAS, stressing the importance of African unity in the face of evolving global dynamics.
Deputy Ambassador Asmaa James concluded the meetings by thanking both ambassadors for their support and highlighting the necessity of collaboration among regional bodies. This visit forms part of Ambassador Jusu’s familiarization tour since assuming his new role.
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