Jeddah, 31st August, 2026 — Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to global justice, African unity and Islamic solidarity as Foreign Minister H.E. Mohamed Rahman Swaray made his maiden international appearance at the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Addressing Foreign Ministers and Heads of Delegation, Minister Swaray called for stronger OIC solidarity, justice for Palestine and a louder African voice in global decision‑making. He reiterated Sierra Leone’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people, urging the protection of civilians, unhindered humanitarian access and the pursuit of a two‑state solution grounded in international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
Minister Swaray highlighted Sierra Leone’s leadership as Coordinator of the African Union Committee of Ten on UN Security Council Reform, emphasising Africa’s demand for permanent representation in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. He urged OIC Member States to support Sierra Leone’s candidates for key international positions Professor Charles C. Jalloh for the International Court of Justice and Ambassador Andrew G. Bangali for re‑election and chairmanship of the International Civil Service Commission.
Reaffirming Sierra Leone’s role as a reliable and principled partner within the OIC, Minister Swaray pledged to strengthen cooperation in peace and security, sustainable development, humanitarian solidarity and South‑South collaboration.
On the sidelines of the session, Minister Swaray held bilateral talks with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, exploring ways to deepen ties between Sierra Leone and Nigeria. He also met with African Ambassadors accredited to the OIC, underscoring Sierra Leone’s commitment to continental coordination and unity of purpose within the Organisation.
The Minister’s engagements mark Sierra Leone’s renewed diplomatic momentum on the global stage championing justice for Palestine, amplifying Africa’s voice at the United Nations, and reinforcing solidarity among OIC Member States.
