India and Sierra Leone have taken a significant step forward in their diplomatic relationship as an Indian All-Party Parliamentary Delegation, led by Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shinde, concluded a successful three-day visit to Freetown. The high-level meetings focused on expanding bilateral cooperation, with a special emphasis on strengthening the global fight against terrorism.
Pahalgam Terrorist Attack Sparks International Diplomacy
The visit comes in the wake of the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where militants affiliated with The Resistance Front—a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba proxy—targeted civilians in Baisaran Valley. The brutal attack left 26 people dead and over 20 injured, drawing international condemnation and renewed calls for global action against terrorism.
Sierra Leone’s Strong Support for India
During their time in Sierra Leone, Dr. Shinde and his delegation met with several high-ranking officials, including the Vice President of Sierra Leone, the Speaker of Parliament, Members of Parliament and the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Deputy Minister of Defence, the National Security Coordinator, and the Acting Foreign Minister.
Sierra Leone’s Vice President strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack, offered condolences to the victims’ families, and firmly declared Sierra Leone’s solidarity with India in combating terrorism. In Parliament, Sierra Leonean lawmakers passed a resolution condemning the attack and observed a moment of silence to honor the victims.
Deputy Defence Minister Col. (Retd.) Muana Brima Massaquoi further stressed the urgency for African nations to proactively unite against terrorism, warning that failing to act could bring similar threats closer to home.
Strengthening Global Alliances Against Terrorism
The Indian delegation also engaged with foreign diplomats stationed in Sierra Leone, emphasizing India’s zero-tolerance policy and urging coordinated action at key global platforms such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). These discussions aimed to isolate states and groups that sponsor or support terrorism across borders.
Media Engagement and Diaspora Outreach
In addition to government meetings, the delegation held interviews with Sierra Leonean media outlets and engaged with the Indian diaspora. Speaking on AYV News TV, delegation member Dr. Sasmit Patra called on Pakistan to dismantle its state-sponsored terrorism networks, a statement that drew attention in local and international circles.
A Successful Visit Promoting India-Africa Cooperation
The visit, praised by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, highlights India’s growing diplomatic engagement with Africa and its commitment to building global alliances to combat terrorism. The successful outcome not only strengthens India-Sierra Leone relations but also sends a clear message about the importance of international unity in the fight against terrorism.
This visit serves as a model for expanding India-Africa cooperation, enhancing diplomatic ties, and addressing shared security challenges.