By: Haddy Touray
President Adama Barrow on Saturday congratulated Sierra Leone and President Julius Maada Bio on the commissioning of the country’s new International Convention Centre, describing it as a symbol of visionary leadership and regional progress.
Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony in Freetown, President Barrow said it was a privilege to join Sierra Leone in celebrating what he described as a ‘landmark national achievement’.
“It is my singular privilege and delight, therefore, to most cordially congratulate Your Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, and the people of Sierra Leone, on this landmark achievement. With great honour, I say this on behalf of the entire Government and People of the Republic of The Gambia,” Barrow said.
He noted that official duties and distance often prevented leaders from attending important events in neighbouring countries, making his presence at the ceremony particularly significant.
Barrow described the convention centre as a monument to Sierra Leone’s vision, ambition and confidence in its future, saying it reflected President Bio’s leadership and commitment to national development.
According to him, the facility symbolises what can be achieved when leaders dedicate themselves to serving their countries and creating lasting institutions for future generations.
The Gambian leader said the occasion also held special significance for The Gambia because of its longstanding historical ties with Sierra Leone, noting that both countries share a commitment to democracy, peace and regional integration within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“Our two governments and peoples have stood together in both good and difficult times, similar to our togetherness here to jointly celebrate this moment of pride,” he said.
Barrow said the convention centre was more than a physical structure, describing it as a platform for diplomacy, commerce, knowledge-sharing and dialogue that would strengthen regional cooperation and provide Africa with an opportunity to present its perspectives on global issues.
He expressed confidence that the centre would host important regional discussions, facilitate negotiations aimed at advancing shared prosperity and serve as a venue for major national and international events.
The Gambian President said Sierra Leone’s investment in the facility demonstrated its commitment to national development while contributing to the broader interests of the West African sub-region.
He urged countries in the region to continue investing in major infrastructure projects that enhance their capacity to host international events and promote development.
President Barrow reaffirmed The Gambia’s pride in Sierra Leone’s achievement, saying the strong bonds of friendship, kinship and cooperation between the two countries made it fitting to celebrate each other’s successes.
He wished that the convention centre would serve for generations as a beacon of unity, investment and development, while extending his best wishes for continued peace, progress and prosperity for Sierra Leone.