By: Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone received His Excellency Lieutenant General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan, during a significant working visit to Sierra Leone.
The engagement highlighted the shared vision and commitment of both nations to foster unity and address pressing challenges facing Africa. In his welcome address, President Bio emphasized the enduring bonds between Sierra Leone and Sudan, stating that despite their geographical distance, both countries are united in their aspirations for peace, development, and prosperity. “As Africans, our colonial borders do not define us. We are united by our shared aspirations for the betterment of our people,” President Bio affirmed.
Lieutenant General Al-Burhan expressed gratitude for the warm reception extended to him and his delegation, noting that the visit reflects Sudan’s determination to strengthen bilateral and diplomatic ties with Sierra Leone. He underscored the importance of solidarity among African nations in tackling regional and continental challenges. “We have come to Sierra Leone to deepen our partnership and seek collaborative solutions to Sudan’s challenges,” he stated.
The two leaders discussed critical issues, including peace and security in Sudan and the wider African region. Both President Bio and Lieutenant General Al-Burhan reiterated the urgency of facilitating swift and unhindered humanitarian access to address acute food insecurity and aid those affected by ongoing conflict. They emphasized the protection of civilians, particularly vulnerable groups such as women, children, and ethnic minorities, and called for accountability regarding any violations of international humanitarian law.
In a press briefing, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Timothy Musa Kabba highlighted the devastating impacts of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, describing it as a significant challenge to political and socio-economic stability in both Sudan and the African continent. “The protracted conflict in Sudan is not in the geostrategic interest of Africa,” Minister Kabba remarked, emphasizing the shared commitment of the two leaders to de-escalation, an immediate cessation of hostilities, and a peaceful resolution through an inclusive Sudanese-led process supported by the United Nations and the African Union.
The visit also reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between Sierra Leone and Sudan. President Bio assured Lieutenant General Al-Burhan and his delegation that Sierra Leone remains a steadfast partner in the pursuit of peace and development. “Consider Freetown a home for Sudan, as we work together to create a brighter future for our continent,” President Bio concluded.
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