His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio welcomed Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), to Sierra Leone on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The visit is part of Mr. Simão’s working trip to the country.
Mr. Simão congratulated President Bio on his recent election as Chairman of ECOWAS and expressed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting him during his tenure amid regional challenges.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for welcoming us. I am here to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your election as Chairman of ECOWAS. Your leadership comes at a critical time, as the region faces multiple complex challenges. Given your vast experience and commitment, we are confident that you will rise to the occasion,” Mr. Simão said. “You can count on our full support. The UN stands ready to work with you throughout your tenure.”
During their meeting, Mr. Simão updated President Bio on significant developments in the ECOWAS region, including upcoming national elections and ongoing security concerns such as terrorism and extremism. He commended Sierra Leone’s role at the United Nations Security Council and President Bio’s advocacy for reforming it.
“We have engaged constructively with state actors across the region. Many of them have committed to holding peaceful and transparent elections. But the broader challenge remains, how we confront the rising threat of terrorism and ensure lasting peace. On that front, your leadership is crucial,” Mr. Simão added.
President Bio thanked Mr. Simão for his visit and briefing on regional affairs while expressing his readiness to collaborate closely with international partners like the UN to bolster peace, security, and democratic governance in West Africa.
“Thank you for your kind words and congratulations,” President Bio said. “I look forward to deepening our coordination and learning from your extensive experience, particularly in electoral observation and regional peacebuilding.”
He reiterated his dedication to working with fellow ECOWAS Heads of State to address key regional challenges collectively.
“We must embrace a multi-dimensional approach to security, one that includes diplomacy, development, and strong regional solidarity. It is in our collective interest to address security challenges in our regional bloc,” he stated.
President Bio concluded by praising the UN’s steadfast support and reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to working together for regional peace and stability.
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