By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, December 16, 2025: The Government of Sierra Leone and the European Union (EU) held their annual Political Partnership Dialogue at State House in Freetown, reaffirming their longstanding cooperation and shared commitment to democracy, peace, and socio-economic development.
The meeting was chaired by President Julius Maada Bio and attended by senior government ministers and officials. The EU delegation was led by Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for External Action, accompanied by six EU Ambassadors accredited to Sierra Leone and senior diplomats.
Both sides underscored democracy as the cornerstone of peace, stability, and inclusive development. Sierra Leone welcomed continued EU support for governance reforms, particularly through electoral observation missions. The dialogue also emphasized joint efforts to combat organized crime, drug trafficking, and transnational criminal networks, highlighting the need for stronger institutions and coordinated action.
The EU commended Sierra Leone’s growing international profile, noting its second year as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and its presidency in November 2025. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, international law, human rights, and gender equality, stressing the importance of a rules-based global order.
Discussions highlighted Sierra Leone’s leadership as Chair of ECOWAS in 2025. The EU reiterated its support for ECOWAS initiatives to safeguard democratic governance and constitutional order across West Africa. Maritime security was also identified as a strategic priority for regional stability and economic resilience.
The dialogue reviewed progress on Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) and the Government’s “Big Five Game Changers.” Both parties stressed the importance of fiscal discipline, stronger public financial management, and reforms to encourage private sector investment. They agreed that good governance and the fight against organized crime are vital for attracting responsible investment and sustaining long-term growth.
The Government of Sierra Leone and the EU reaffirmed their commitment to continue these high-level consultations, which complement ongoing bilateral cooperation and coordination within the Development Partners Coordination Group (DEPAC).