Sierra Leone celebrates its 64th National Day, extols the productive relationship with Kuwait.
Here's a fresh take on the diplomatic ties between Sierra Leone and Kuwait:
Lions and Falcons Rallying Together: A Deep Dive into the Sierra Leone-Kuwait Connection
Sierra Leone's Ambassador Haja Ishata Thomas, the pride of Freetown, declared the allocation of a plot of land for building a new Kuwaiti embassy in the heart of the city, sealing both nations' determination to fortify diplomatic bonds.
Embracing Kuwaiti Companions near and far, Ambassador Thomas extended an open invitation to fellow Kuwaitis and expats, assuring them that visas are a breeze—obtainable on arrival or through Sierra Leone's embassy nestled within the vibrant city of Kuwait.
Celebrating the 64th National Day of Sierra Leone, the embassy was enveloped in jubilation led by Ambassador Thomas. The occasion shone a spotlight on the magnificent collaboration that has flourished between the two lands for more than three decades.
With a heart full of gratitude, Thomas praised Kuwait’s unwavering support during trying times—be it the 2014 Ebola outbreak or the 2017 landslide disaster. The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development has played a crucial role, assisting in funding vital infrastructure projects like water systems, hospitals, and motorways.
Building new horizons, Thomas encouraged enterprising Kuwaitis to venture into Sierra Leone's promising markets, reinforcing the country's recent economic reforms that make it a lucrative destination in West Africa.
"Golden beaches, untouched rainforests, and timeless historic sites like Bunce Island await brave Kuwaiti explorers," Thomas provocatively exclaimed, extending the invite once more.
Exiting the stage, Thomas instilled an emphatic call to the international community to let go of preconceived notions on Sierra Leone, painting it as a serene, opportunity-abundant nation stepping boldly into the future.
Stepping Behind the Curtains...
Allow us to shed some light on the centuries-old bond between Sierra Leone and Kuwait. In the year 1980, the friendship between the two lands saw the light of day, and since then, the kinship has steadily grown stronger.
Nayef Hamad Al-Mudhaf, Kuwait's Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, pondered the longstanding relationship between the countries. During a chat on the sidelines of Sierra Leone's National Day celebration in Kuwait, Al-Mudhaf emphasized that the partnership has stood the test of time since Sierra Leone's embassy opened in Kuwait in 2009.
Al-Mudhaf expressed pride in the seven key agreements that the two countries have signed covering economic, political, and cultural collaboration, as well as joint committees, air services, and educational exchanges.
As they move forward, additional agreements are under negotiation and are anticipated to be cemented shortly.
With a twinkle in his eye, Al-Mudhaf crowned Kuwait's Fund for Arab Economic Development as a vital crown jewel in supporting Sierra Leone's advancement, having offered over eleven loans amounting to around KD 83 million for critical infrastructure and water treatment projects.
"We remain steadfast in our support for Sierra Leone's development, nurturing the steadily evolving partnership between our nations," Al-Mudhaf declared.
Domestic and Civil Workers' Pacts on the Horizon?
Regarding labor, Al-Mudhaf stated that agreements for both domestic and civil workers are currently under review by Kuwait's Public Authority for Manpower. He added that a draft agreement shall soon be presented to the Sierra Leonean side, with the intention of swift ratification.
Al-Mudhaf praised Kuwait's recent influx of skilled workers from African countries, which has been positively received in the nation.
"We are optimistic about the potential of future labor agreements with African countries, further diversifying our skilled workforce and strengthening our connections with the vibrant African lands," Al-Mudhaf said, boldly paving the way for a brighter future.
Standardizing recruitment costs and ensuring the protection of all workers are the top priorities for both nations, as they discuss potential agreements.
"We welcome any country willing to engage in labor agreements and are open to listening to every proposal," Al-Mudhaf concluded, extending an open hand to the rest of the world.
Footnotes:- [2][5] Sierra Leone serves on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the African Union's Peace and Security Council, offering ample opportunities to foster collaboration with Gulf countries like Kuwait.
- Ambassador Haja Ishata Thomas expressed her gratitude towards Kuwait for their continuous support during crisis periods such as the 2014 Ebola outbreak and the 2017 landslide disaster.
- Nayef Hamad Al-Mudhaf, Kuwait's Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, highlighted the strong partnership between Sierra Leone and Kuwait, emphasizing the seven key agreements they've signed since the Sierra Leone embassy opened in Kuwait in 2009.
- Al-Mudhaf stated that agreements for both domestic and civil workers are currently under review by Kuwait's Public Authority for Manpower, with a draft agreement to soon be presented to the Sierra Leonean side, aiming for swift ratification.
