The European Union Special Representative for the Sahel, João Cravinho, on Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to President Julius Maada Bio, the newly elected Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and President of Sierra Leone.
During their meeting, held in Brussels, Cravinho congratulated President Bio on his appointment, describing it as a recognition of his “exemplary leadership” in the West African region. “We congratulate you on this high responsibility. The European Union looks forward to working with you to address the region’s pressing challenges,” he said.
Cravinho also updated the ECOWAS Chairman on his ongoing work in the Sahel, affirming the EU’s commitment to deepening collaboration with regional leaders to confront escalating security threats and political instability. He praised Bio’s transformation from a former military officer to a two-term elected president, calling him a “source of inspiration” for leaders across the Sahel.
In his remarks, President Bio thanked the EU envoy for the visit and expressed appreciation for the European Union’s continued support. He acknowledged the mounting security concerns in both the Sahel and West African coastal states, stressing the importance of sustained dialogue with governments undergoing political transitions.
“The Sahel states need special attention. As President of the ECOWAS Authority, I am determined to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with the leaders of the region,” Bio stated.
The visit reflects the European Union’s commitment to reinforcing its strategic partnership with ECOWAS to address terrorism, insecurity, and governance issues across the Sahel.
