Parliamentary Leadership Calls for Cooperation
In a solemn ceremony held at the Iranian Parliament on July 30, 2024, Iran’s President-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian, was officially sworn into office. The event was attended by delegation from Sierra Leone, which was led by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, and included Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, minority leader from Koinadugu district and Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray from Moyamba district.
The inauguration itself, a two-step process, began with an endorsement ceremony known as TANFIZ by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, followed by the oath-taking in Parliament.
At 69, President Masoud Pezeshkian becomes Iran’s ninth elected president. Sworn in on the Holy Quran, Pezeshkian vowed to uphold the Islamic Republic’s values, protect its constitution, and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. He emphasized a commitment to inclusive development, promising to transcend religious, gender, and ethnic divides in the nation’s progress. “I have hope for the future,” Pezeshkian declared, outlining his vision for economic enhancement and improved living standard
The endorsement ceremony witnessed by HE Alie Badara Kamara, Ambassador to Iran
The ceremony was also an opportunity for Iran to reaffirm its international relations, notably with Sierra Leone. In a statement, the Iranian government expressed gratitude to Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh and his delegation for attending the event, highlighting the enduring bilateral relations between the two nations. Iran acknowledged its past contributions to Sierra Leone in areas such as health, agriculture, technology, and education, and signaled a desire to deepen cooperation in trade, medical facilities, and other sectors.
Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, in his remarks, conveyed a congratulatory message from Sierra Leone’s President, His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, to President Pezeshkian. Hon. Conteh expressed optimism on the potentials for further strengthening of ties between the two countries, suggesting that mutual visits and positive meaningful exchanges between their parliaments could foster shared learning and development.
The Deputy Speaker also underscored Sierra Leone’s welcoming business environment, inviting Iranian investors to explore opportunities in Sierra Leone.
The visit not only celebrated a significant political transition in Iran but also underscored the potential for expanded collaboration between Iran and Sierra Leone, particularly in fostering sustainable development and economic growth.
By Elizabeth Mamie Campbell, Information Attaché,
Sierra Leone Embassy, Republic of Iran