Doha, Qatar — October 16, 2025: Sierra Leone and Lebanon have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting migrant workers through enhanced bilateral cooperation, following high-level talks between Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Honourable Mohamed Rahman Swaray, and Lebanon’s Minister of Labour, H.E. Dr. Mohammad Haidar.
The meeting, held ahead of the 6th Session of the Islamic Conference of Labour Ministers in Doha, focused on formalizing labour relations and expanding employment opportunities for Sierra Leoneans abroad. Both ministers emphasized the importance of ethical recruitment and fair treatment of migrant workers.
Minister Swaray expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Lebanese government for its support to Sierra Leonean nationals during Lebanon’s recent crisis, highlighting the enduring people-to-people ties between the two nations.
A key proposal from Sierra Leone was the creation of a joint digital database system. This platform would enable both countries to monitor the flow of regular and irregular migration, track migrant workers and their families, and ensure the welfare of Sierra Leonean workers in Lebanon.
The ministers agreed to develop a formal Bilateral Labour Agreement (BLA), setting a clear roadmap for cooperation. The agreement aims to promote transparency, protect workers’ rights, and foster mutual investment and job creation.
Sierra Leone and Lebanon share a longstanding relationship rooted in business and cultural exchange. The new labour accord is expected to deepen that partnership, placing worker welfare at the heart of future collaboration.