By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, May 30, 2025 — An Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde, has concluded a two-day diplomatic mission in Sierra Leone, strengthening international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
The visit was part of India’s global outreach following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 civilian lives. The attack targeted primarily Hindu tourists but also resulted in the deaths of a Christian tourist and a local Muslim.
During their meetings with Sierra Leonean officials, Dr. Shinde reaffirmed India’s firm stance against terrorism and called for unified global action. “The objective of our visit is to garner international support and raise awareness about the grave threat posed by terrorism,” he stated.
In a gesture of solidarity, Sierra Leone’s Parliament officially condemned the Pahalgam attack and observed a moment of silence for the victims. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh expressed condolences and reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting India in counter-terrorism efforts.
Deputy Defence Minister Col. (Retd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi stressed the urgent need for African nations to collaborate against terrorism, warning that inaction could expose the continent to similar threats. Opposition Deputy Leader Daniel Brima Koroma echoed strong condemnation of terrorism.
The delegation held discussions with key officials, including the Speaker of Parliament, members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Minister of Defence, the National Security Coordinator, the Acting Foreign Minister, and the Vice President. Talks focused on strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts and enhancing bilateral relations between India and Sierra Leone.
Dr. Sasmit Patra, another member of the delegation, urged Pakistan to abandon state-sponsored terrorism, a statement that reportedly resonated with Sierra Leonean audiences. He also emphasized the importance of coordinated international action through bodies like the United Nations Security Council and the African Union.
In addition to high-level diplomatic engagements, the delegation interacted with local media and the Indian diaspora in Sierra Leone, reaffirming the enduring ties between both nations.
The visit marks a significant step in India’s diplomatic strategy to counter terrorism through international cooperation and multilateral engagement.