ln a bid to enhance professional performance and effectiveness, a cross-section of personnel from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation engaged in a three-day Capacity Strengthening Training on Protocol and Multilateralism, hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco. The event took place from December 9th to 11th, 2024, at the Foreign Service Academy in Freetown.
Ambassador Soulay B. Daramy, Executive Director at the Foreign Service Academy, commended the enduring relationship between Sierra Leone and Morocco.
He expressed gratitude for the ambassadors’ expertise, which significantly benefits the ministry’s staff, particularly during challenging economic times.
Daramy expressed hope that the collaboration signifies a new beginning and invited the ambassadors to continue contributing to the training of ministry personnel.
The Ambassador underscored the financial advantages of hosting the event, noting that it reduces costs compared to sending participants abroad.
He shared aspirations for broader training opportunities in the future, and expressed enthusiasm about learning from the diverse experiences of attendees.
The training encompassed various topics, including the United Nations Security Council’s provisional rules of procedure, UN peacekeeping efforts, Morocco’s contributions to human rights, migration policy, and the fight against terrorism. It also addressed economic diplomacy multilateral trade issues and other aspects.
Khalid Khsas, Chargé dAffaires of Morocco, emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge with Sierra Leoneans and harnessing Africa’s demographic potential, with 70 percent of the continent’s population under 30.
He reiterated Morocco’s commitment to fostering African development and stressed the need for Africans to lead their development processes.
The curriculum included essential diplomatic skills, cultural awareness, and Moroccos foreign policy regarding Africa and the UN Security Council.
Ambassador Youns Tijani, who focused on multilateralism, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with enthusiastic diplomats and advocated for ongoing collaboration between their academies.
He recognized Morocco’s contributions to the multilateral system and wished success to the ministry’s diplomats being posted abroad.
Ambassador Abdelouahab Bellouki, who conducted the protocol segment, highlighted the enriching experiences gained through interactions during the training.
He stressed the importance of being well-prepared to represent Sierra Leone effectively on the international stage.
Musa M. Feika, Assistant Secretary, commended the training materials as invaluable and praised the facilitators and fellow diplomats for their effective instruction.
He emphasized the significance of skilled individuals in managing international relations and expressed gratitude on behalf of himself and his colleagues for the opportunity to learn from experienced trainers.
Deputy Administrator Emmanuel Sandi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained, emphasizing the importance of learning, adaptation, and dialogue in the evolving landscape of international relations.
Acting Director General Alan C.E. Logan expressed praised to the Moroccan authorities for their support in improving economic conditions and conveyed optimism about the insights gained from the training. He highlighted the evolving partnership between Sierra Leone and Morocco, citing mutual support during conflicts and collaborative efforts such as scholarships and trade delegations.
Director Logan acknowledged Morocco’s leadership in initiatives related to climate change and human rights, emphasizing the significance of idea exchange among young diplomats.
The team reaffirmed their commitment to foster friendship and collaboration with the people of Sierra Leone.
Acting Director General Logan celebrated the successful completion of the training program, recognizing the hard work and dedication of all participants.
He encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge gained in their daily work and to face new challenges with confidence.
Credit: Correspondent- Amara Kargbo, SLNA
