E U Envoy to the Sahel Meets ECOWAS Chair Julius Maada Bio, Pledges Stronger Regional Partnership
By Raymond Enoch
Raymond Enoch
Joao Cravinho, the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel, paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and current Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
During the meeting, held in Brussels, Mr. Cravinho congratulated President Bio on his election as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, commending his leadership as a beacon of stability and progress in West Africa. “We congratulate you on this high responsibility. The European Union looks forward to working with you to address the region’s pressing challenges,” Cravinho said.
He also provided updates on his mission in the Sahel and emphasized his desire to deepen collaboration between the EU and West African states. Referring to President Bio’s journey from military leader to twice-elected president, Mr. Cravinho praised his resilience and statesmanship, calling him an inspiration for the region.
President Bio thanked the EU for its continued support and acknowledged the significance of the partnership in addressing the Sahel’s persistent security issues. He reaffirmed his commitment to fostering dialogue, especially with transitional governments, and highlighted the urgency of maintaining peace and cooperation across the Sahel and coastal regions. “The Sahel states need special attention,” President Bio emphasized. “As President of the Authority, I am determined to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the leaders of the region.”
The visit underscores the EU’s commitment to a robust partnership with ECOWAS in confronting the multifaceted challenges confronting the Sahel.
