By: Tommy Sidikie
Mohamed Sheriff, Information Attaché at the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Switzerland and the Permanent Mission of Sierra Leone to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, expressed enthusiasm for strengthening diplomatic ties with Switzerland following a recent meeting with Swiss officials. The meeting, facilitated by the Deputy Ambassador of the Swiss Mission, highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two countries and explored potential areas for future partnership.
Reflecting on his assignment, Sheriff shared his experience attending the “Introduction to UN Geneva for New Diplomats” program at the UN Library, which provided valuable insights into Swiss perspectives. He emphasized the importance of engaging with Swiss information attachés to foster shared experiences that align with the interests and aspirations of both nations. Sierra Leone’s diplomatic relationship with Switzerland dates back to 1920, when Switzerland first established a consulate in then-British-controlled Sierra Leone.
Since Sierra Leone’s independence in 1961, formal diplomatic relations have been established, with Switzerland’s consulate in Freetown later upgraded to a Consulate General. In 2012, Sierra Leone inaugurated its Embassy and Permanent Mission in Geneva, appointing Ambassador Yvette Stevens as its first Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the UN, reflecting the country’s commitment to women’s empowerment. President Julius Maada Bio has further strengthened ties with Switzerland since taking office in 2018, expanding the Embassy’s focus to international cooperation across various fields.
Sheriff highlighted Sierra Leone’s increasing role in international cooperation, noting progress in sectors such as education, trade, mining, investment, humanitarian affairs, human rights, telecommunications, health, peace and security, and tourism. He credited these achievements to collaborative efforts and knowledge exchange between the two nations. However, he acknowledged that limited information has been shared with Swiss counterparts due to language barriers and restricted collaboration opportunities.
In response to Sheriff’s advocacy, Mr. Frederick Ballenegger, Second Secretary and Communication Specialist, expressed appreciation for the meeting and optimism for future collaboration. He proposed organizing interview sessions with Dr. Lansana Gberie, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative to Switzerland and the United Nations, for local newspapers and television. These interviews would focus on thematic issues such as UNSC collaborations, the Ambassador’s work, and President Bio’s initiatives, all aimed at showcasing Sierra Leone’s rebranding efforts in the coming weeks.
