Ambassador Jusu explained that the purpose of his visit was to acknowledge the influence of the Egmont Institute, an independent Brussels-based think tank. He highlighted that Sierra Leone, as a small nation, can sometimes be overlooked in international discussions, particularly concerning Belgium’s partnerships with other countries. It is for this reason, he stated, that Sierra Leone is keen to partner with an institute like Egmont, seeking their advice and support.
The Ambassador-designate also discussed the increasing complexity of modern diplomacy, emphasising the need for diplomats to be well-informed about developments across different organisations.
Mr Pol De Witte, the Director General of the Institute, provided an overview of the Egmont Institute’s functions and extended a warm welcome to the Ambassador. He assured Ambassador Jusu of the Institute’s full support whenever required.
Mr De Witte also offered advice on engaging with various institutions following the presentation of credentials.
Maintaining Momentum: Sustained Engagement in Brussels’ Diplomatic Sphere
On the 3rd July 2025: Sierra Leone’s Ambassador-designate, Philip Bob Jusu, is actively continuing his engagement with various embassies and organisations in Belgium. Today, he visited the Embassy of the Republic of Estonia, the Permanent Mission of the League of Arab States to the European Union, and the Embassy of the Republic of New Zealand.
Ambassador Jusu had productive discussions with H.E. Ms. Helen Kalijulate, Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia; Ambassador Jaward Kadim Al-Chlaihawi, Head of the Permanent Mission of the League of Arab States; and Simon Draper, Ambassador of New Zealand.
During his visit to the Estonian Embassy, Ambassador Jusu remarked that Estonia has been “punching way above its weight in areas of education and technology.” He emphasised that despite being a small country, Estonia has significant influence as a gateway between Western and Eastern Europe. Ambassador Jusu highlighted the importance of developing a strong relationship with Estonia, particularly in e-governance and digital infrastructure, to cultivate links between the two countries.
Ambassador Kalijulate expressed her satisfaction with Ambassador Jusu’s approach, recalling Estonia’s journey after gaining independence when they faced financial challenges. She shared how the country successfully built a 100% digital government infrastructure. She welcomed the prospect of establishing institutional connections through digital summits, study visits, and bilateral exchanges.
At the League of Arab States, Ambassador Jusu acknowledged that while Sierra Leone is not a member of the League, it is part of the Organisation of Islamic Countries and maintains good relationships with numerous Arab nations. He underscored the value Sierra Leone places on religious tolerance and expressed that engagement with the League could create opportunities for the country.
Ambassador Jaward Kadim Al-Chlaihawi indicated that this visit is a positive sign for Ambassador Jusu’s future work and stated his readiness to cooperate, given Sierra Leone’s ties to Arab countries.
Reflecting on his deep connection with New Zealand, where he studied, Ambassador Jusu expressed gratitude for the transformative impact that studying there had on his life. He underscored the power of scholarship opportunities, which benefit not only individual students but also society and the country as a whole. He is keen on exploring scholarship options for Sierra Leonean students and leveraging opportunities to positively impact his nation.
Ambassador Simon Draper of New Zealand noted that Ambassador Jusu has arrived during a time of change in the world and assured him that he would be available to provide information and guidance on engagement moving forward.
