By sulaiman.sesay@awokonewspaper.sl
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – On the occasion of Europe Day, His Excellency Ambassador Manuel Muller, Head of the European Union Delegation in Sierra Leone, reiterated the European Union’s unwavering commitment to cooperation and collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel in Freetown on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, Ambassador Muller emphasized the unity of Team Europe, comprising 27 member states, in supporting Sierra Leone’s development goals.
“We stand with Sierra Leone as one team,” Ambassador Muller declared, highlighting the significant contributions made by EU member states, including Germany, Ireland, and France, towards development initiatives in Sierra Leone.
He underscored the EU’s support for Sierra Leone’s National Medium Term Development Plan and the Big Five Game Changers, aligning interventions with the government’s priorities to drive economic growth, social development, and democracy.
“The EU will continue its global gateway support to Sierra Leone, especially on green transition which includes agriculture, green economy and the protection of nature, education and on good governance.”
Ambassador Muller celebrated the launch of the Spotlight Initiative, saying “I am happy that recently we formally agreed with the government to launch the spotlight initiative which unites the EU and the United Nations in supporting the Government of Sierra Leone in its fight against sexual and gender-based violence,” and applauded the enactment of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act, which has increased female representation in governance.
Acknowledging the importance of the private sector in driving economic development, Ambassador Muller announced EU support for initiatives to improve the business climate and facilitate access to affordable loans for value chain producers.
He also highlighted the Feed Salone project, aimed at enhancing agricultural production in Sierra Leone, and emphasized the EU’s commitment to promoting a conducive political environment for economic growth.
Ambassador Muller acknowledged the
national unity agreement saying “This agreement is a Sierra Leonean achievement” and that the EU looks forward to seeing the recommendations of the electoral system review committee for future elections. He revealed that the EU will continue to support election management bodies in implementing future recommendations.
“The upcoming constitutional reform process will be an opportunity to strengthen democracy, rule of law, national unity through an inclusive and transparent process in which all stakeholders have a voice,” adding “Working towards a future inclusive and pluralistic democracy that is based on national unity and the rule of law and watched by vibrant media and vibrant civil society will give more room for focusing on the much needed socio-economic development.”
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s participation in the UN Security Council, Ambassador Muller reiterated the EU’s commitment. “It is important that we join hands to defend multilateralism including the values and the objectives enshrined in the UN Charter as well as all human rights and fundamental freedoms. “Multilateralism is the best answer to foster peace and security.”
In response, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Alghali, expressed gratitude for Team Europe’s support and collaboration with Sierra Leone, emphasizing the strategic alignment of EU initiatives with national development priorities.
Minister Alghali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to multilateralism and partnership with the EU, highlighting the pivotal role of EU support in driving economic growth and job creation in Sierra Leone.
Together, Ambassador Muller and Minister Alghali toasted to the prosperity and well-being of Sierra Leone, symbolizing a shared commitment to peace, development, and democratic governance.
As the celebration concluded, it underscored the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and the European Union, reflecting a shared vision for a brighter future for all citizens. SKS/13/5/2024