By Sulaiman T Jalloh
His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, has welcomed the signing of the ceasefire agreement between the State of Israel and Hamas, reached following indirect talks facilitated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye.
President Bio commended the tireless diplomatic efforts of the mediators and all parties involved in bringing the accord to fruition, describing it as “a significant step toward peace and humanitarian relief.”
“Sierra Leone welcomes the entry into force of the ceasefire and the commencement of the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, as stipulated in the agreement,” President Bio said. “These are vital humanitarian steps that honour the dignity of families on all sides and create space for the difficult but necessary work of ending the cycle of violence.”
The President further noted Sierra Leone’s appreciation for the surge of humanitarian assistance reaching civilians in need and urged full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access in accordance with international humanitarian law. He emphasized that the protection of civilians must remain paramount.
Sierra Leone also took positive note of President Donald J. Trump’s peace plan and the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit convened in Egypt, encouraging all stakeholders to engage in good-faith negotiations consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
President Bio underscored that any lasting peace must:
• Realize the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination,
• Guarantee Israel’s security and the safety of its citizens, and
• Contribute to broader stability across the Middle East.
“As an elected member of the United Nations Security Council (2024–2025) and a firm advocate for rules-based multilateralism, Sierra Leone stands ready to support diplomatic efforts that consolidate the ceasefire, ensure the humane release and exchange of hostages and prisoners, expand humanitarian corridors, and translate this opening into a durable political settlement,” President Bio stated.
“Our collective goal must be a just and lasting peace—so that Israelis and Palestinians alike can live in security, dignity, and mutual recognition,” he concluded.
