Kazakhstan strengthens diplomatic and economic bonds with Sierra Leone.

In a significant step towards strengthening relations, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Timothy Musa Kabba of Sierra Leone held a meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan on Aug. 28.

The meeting, aimed at deepening political, economic, and humanitarian ties between the two nations, marked a commitment from both sides to expand cooperation. Tokayev expressed Kazakhstan's dedication to fostering ties with African nations, while Kabba highlighted Sierra Leone's intention to increase its presence in Central Asia.

The discussions focused on various sectors, including agriculture, logistics, digitalization, healthcare, and education. Both sides expressed their readiness to collaborate in these areas, reflecting a shared vision for mutual growth and development.

In a promising development, the Agreement on a Mutual Visa-Free Regime for Holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports between Kazakhstan and Sierra Leone will come into effect on Sept. 5. This decision, according to Kabba, underscores Kazakhstan's openness to strengthening long-term ties with Africa.

Kabba also conveyed a personal message from Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio during the meeting. This was Kabba's second visit to Kazakhstan in 2023, indicating positive dynamics in bilateral relations.

During the visit, Kabba also met with Murat Nurtleu, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan. Both sides reaffirmed their shared positions on key matters, including the need for reform of the UN Security Council.

The Sierra Leonean side expressed support for Kazakhstan's initiatives within the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). They also expressed readiness to continue supporting Kazakhstan's initiatives within these organizations.

Nurtleu emphasized the importance of building mutual trust in addition to broadening practical collaboration. Both sides expressed confidence that active political dialogue and the implementation of agreements will further strengthen mutual understanding and open new opportunities for partnership.

Both Kazakhstan and Sierra Leone recognize each other as reliable partners in multilateral diplomacy. This meeting marks a significant step in the steady development of relations between the two countries, as they work together towards a future of mutual growth and cooperation.