By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown – Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Monday, April 7, 2025, received Mr. Neale Richmond, Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora, at State House during his brief working visit to Sierra Leone.
In his remarks, Minister Richmond expressed gratitude to President Bio for the warm reception and emphasized the purpose of his visit—to assess the work of the Irish Embassy in Sierra Leone and to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. He also formally handed over Sierra Leone’s agreemo for the establishment of its embassy in Ireland.
“It is a pleasure for me to also formally hand over Sierra Leone’s agreemo for the establishment of its embassy in Ireland,” Minister Richmond announced.
President Bio warmly welcomed the visiting minister and acknowledged the longstanding and fruitful relationship between Sierra Leone and Ireland. He highlighted the significant collaboration between the two countries, particularly in the areas of education and women’s empowerment.
The President described the establishment of Sierra Leone’s embassy in Ireland as a testament to his government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening diplomatic engagement. He reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to working closely with the Irish Government and its Embassy in Sierra Leone.
The meeting underscored the importance of international cooperation and Sierra Leone’s efforts to foster stronger diplomatic and developmental partnerships.