The Embassy of Sierra Leone in South Korea actively participated in the 7th Seoul Dialogue on Africa, held at the Sapphire Ballroom of the Lotte Hotel in Seoul. Co-hosted by the Korea-Africa Foundation and South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event revolved around the theme "New Horizons in Korea-Africa Strategic Partnership."

Keynote speaker Professor David Francis, Sierra Leone’s former Chief Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, delivered a presentation titled “Sierra Leone–Korea Relations: New Horizon for Strategic Partnership with a Global Pivotal State.” He emphasized the longstanding diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations, which date back to 1962 and have grown significantly since the establishment of Sierra Leone's embassy in Seoul in 2014.

Professor Francis highlighted Korea’s rapid development, transforming from a war-torn nation into a global economic powerhouse within six decades. He pointed to Korea’s rise as a model for African countries, including Sierra Leone, which still faces challenges such as low GDP, food insecurity, and limited socio-economic development.

“Sierra Leone has much to learn from Korea’s developmental trajectory. Korea’s expertise in human capital development, agricultural modernization, and infrastructure development offers immense potential for strategic collaboration,” Professor Francis stated.

The professor further outlined opportunities for strengthening Korea-Africa relations, particularly in agriculture, maritime security, and human capital development. He advocated for increased bilateral support to Sierra Leone, especially in transforming its agricultural sector, which is vital for food security and economic diversification.

Reflecting on the outcomes of the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit held earlier this year, Professor Francis expressed concerns about the accessibility of the $24 billion pledged by Korea for development aid and export financing. He called for direct financial assistance to African governments instead of channeling funds through intermediaries such as the African Development Bank.

“Africa is ready for meaningful partnerships. Korea’s support for the African Union's demand for United Nations Security Council reform, as well as a more transparent and accessible aid model, would demonstrate genuine solidarity,” he remarked.

The Dialogue also featured remarks from other African ambassadors, including H.E. Chafik Rachadi of Morocco and H.E. Togolani Edriss Mavura of Tanzania, who stressed the importance of expanding ties and crafting innovative solutions for shared growth and sustainability.

Sierra Leone’s participation in the Dialogue reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its partnership with South Korea and leveraging Korean expertise to address national development priorities, particularly under the government’s "Feed Salone" agriculture transformation program.

As the 8th Seoul Dialogue on Africa is planned for 2025, Sierra Leone remains optimistic about deepening ties with Korea, focusing on a win-win relationship that drives sustainable development and mutual prosperity.