By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Planning and Economic Development and current Chair of the g7+, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, has expressed profound appreciation to the Government and people of Timor-Leste for the warm reception accorded to delegates attending the opening of the high-level g7+ member states meeting in Dili.
Delivering her remarks at the official welcome ceremony, Madam Barlay described the reception as a “touching display of solidarity and hospitality,” extending heartfelt thanks to His Excellency Benedito Freitas, Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs; and the Secretary-General of the g7+, Hélder da Costa, for their gracious welcome.
“This is my first time in Dili, and I am deeply moved by the warmth and welcome extended by the country of Timor-Leste, by the Timorese people, and by the spirit of hospitality that surrounds us on this historic occasion,” she said, capturing the spirit of unity that permeated the ceremony.
The high-level gathering brings together ministers, senior officials, and development experts from member countries of the g7+, a coalition of fragile and conflict-affected states committed to mutual learning, peer support, and collective action for peacebuilding, state building, and sustainable development. Sierra Leone, serving as the current Chair, is playing a pivotal role in guiding the dialogue and helping set the agenda for the coalition’s future.
Madam Barlay emphasized that the g7+ is more than just a formal group—it is a collective of nations bound by shared experiences, aspirations, and resilience. “We are more than just an organization—we are a family of nations who have walked similar paths, who understand each other’s struggles, and who stand together in solidarity,” she told the audience.
She also highlighted the value of both formal discussions and informal interactions during the summit, noting that these engagements foster trust, deepen friendships, and create a foundation for long-term collaboration.
“These moments allow us the space to build trust, to renew friendships, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to peace and resilience, both in our countries and beyond,” she said.
The Dili summit marks a significant opportunity for member states to assess the progress made over the years and re-strategize on key priorities such as financing for peacebuilding, improving aid effectiveness, and promoting South-South cooperation. It also reinforces the group’s dedication to voicing the unique perspectives and development needs of countries navigating the complex path from conflict to recovery.
Founded in 2010, the g7+ now includes over 20 countries that have experienced or are emerging from conflict. The coalition works to ensure that global development policies and interventions are shaped by the realities on the ground in member states, advocating for context-sensitive approaches and inclusive partnerships.
Madam Barlay, on behalf of Sierra Leone and fellow member states, commended Timor-Leste not only for hosting the summit but also for its consistent leadership in the coalition since its founding.
“I look forward to engaging with each of you during this special time together. Thank you once again for the warm welcome – and let us enjoy this evening,” she concluded.
The g7+ sessions in Dili will continue over the next few days, featuring ministerial consultations, strategic dialogues, and technical sessions aimed at identifying collective solutions to shared challenges, while reinforcing the group’s unwavering commitment to resilience, peace, and development.
