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25 July 2025
UNOWAS SRSG wraps up Sierra Leone trip following talks with President and key leaders.
Mr Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, wrapped up a two-day visit to Sierra Leone, engaging with President Julius Maada Bio, senior government officials, opposition leaders, development partners, and the UN Country Team.He conveyed the UN Secretary-General’s congratulations on President Bio’s appointment as ECOWAS Chair and reaffirmed the UN’s support during his tenure. Discussions focused on regional political and security developments, the urgency of credible elections, and growing threats from extremism.Simão commended Sierra Leone’s contributions at the UN Security Council and President Bio’s stance on UN reform. President Bio expressed commitment to collaborate on regional peace and security through diplomacy and development.The SRSG also held talks with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and Justice on subregional matters. He was joined by the UN Resident Coordinator and key aides throughout the visit.
