Pope and Patriach Theodoros II accompanied by the Ambassador of Egypt to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Maher Almahdy visited the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation at his Tower Hill Office in Freetown.

The purpose of the visit was to celebrate the Tenth (10th) anniversary since the establishment of the Orthodox Church Mission in Sierra Leone (2007/8).

In his opening remarks, Dr. Alie Kabba welcomed the pope and team on behalf of his Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio and the People of Sierra Leone. He expressed appreciation regarding the existing long standing bilateral relationship. Dr. Kabba added that the Government of Sierra Leone appreciates the service of the Holy Orthodox Archdiocesan to Sierra Leone especially in the area of providing social services including education. The Minister assured the Pope of Government’s continued cooperation and mentioned that the Ministry  would serve as the front door to promote the Arch diocesan’s activities in the interest of Sierra Leone especially so when the country is well known for its religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

The Pope expressed his delight to visit Sierra Leone for the second time and indicated his willingness to work with the Government and People of Sierra Leone whilst also acknowledging Sierra Leone as a peaceful country. He assured of his cooperation with the Government and People of Sierra Leone especially in the provision of quality education. He mentioned that Orthodox Archdiocesan will be reopening a school at Kroo Bay on the 10^th November, 2018 and concluded by expressing his team’s desire to visit orphanages in Sierra Leone during his stay.

Present were: the Director General and Ambassador At-Large Paul A.S Minah; Director of Protocol Sahr E. Johnny and staffs of the Ministry.