Freetown:Sierra Leone, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Spain have committed to deepening diplomatic relations and enhancing economic cooperation. Both nations have identified key areas such as food security, digital transformation, trade, and investment as priorities to achieve shared development goals.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, this commitment was reaffirmed during Spain's National Day celebrations in Freetown on October 12, 2026. Spain's Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Angel Antonio Carrascal Gutiérrez, and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, highlighted the progress in bilateral relations and the opportunities for closer collaboration.
Ambassador Carrascal Gutiérrez described the relationship between Sierra Leone and Spain as excellent, noting that diplomatic exchanges and cooperation have reached unprecedented levels since his appointment in April 2024. He emphasized the collaboration in areas such as migration management, human rights protection, trade promotion, and political engagement as evidence of the partnership's expanding scope.
The ambassador outlined three principal areas of cooperation community development and food security, digital transformation, and the promotion of Spanish language and culture. He highlighted an initiative in Bureh Town that involves Caritas, the MAGA Foundation, and local authorities in Catalonia, Spain, aimed at supporting food security and local development.
In the realm of digital innovation, Ambassador Carrascal Gutiérrez mentioned the Startups Week, organized in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to strengthen Sierra Leone's startup ecosystem. This initiative focuses on artificial intelligence, innovation, and entrepreneurship, aiming to provide opportunities for young people and women in the digital economy.
Efforts to promote Spanish-language education and cultural exchanges were also emphasized, including opportunities for musicians and cultural practitioners from both countries to engage. Ambassador Carrascal Gutiérrez commended Spain's Honorary Consul in Sierra Leone, Antonio Villaseñor, and acknowledged Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh for their contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.
Minister Sesay, speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, congratulated King Felipe VI and the Spanish government on their National Day. He praised Spain's cultural heritage, democratic traditions, and contributions to international peace. The minister highlighted the mutually beneficial partnership between the two countries, spanning human rights, migration management, economic engagement, and political dialogue.
Minister Sesay proposed an investment summit or conference in Sierra Leone or Spain, suggesting the event be held in 2027 to showcase Sierra Leone's investment opportunities. He encouraged sustained engagement and practical initiatives to support economic growth and advance shared development priorities.
Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across various sectors, including education, tourism, cultural exchange, and climate action. The celebrations concluded with a toast to King Felipe VI and the continued peace, unity, and prosperity of both nations. Both countries expressed confidence in their partnership's ability to deliver lasting benefits for their citizens.