The International Criminal Court's Prosecutor, Karim Asad Ahmad Khan KC, had a productive meeting with Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The International Criminal Court tweeted that the meeting primarily revolved around fostering stronger cooperation and enhancing regional dialogue in alignment with the principles of the Rome Statute.
President Bio confirmed the meeting and expressed his enthusiasm for the discussions, noting that they encompassed Sierra Leone's role within the International Criminal Court and its tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
President Bio stated, "Prosecutor Karim Asad Ahmad Khan KC emphasized the need to reinforce the excellent partnership between Sierra Leone and the ICC. This partnership includes Sierra Leone assuming leadership responsibilities among the African members of the UN Security Council (A3) regarding matters of accountability and the ICC."
He went on to highlight Prosecutor Khan's appreciation for Sierra Leone's unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law.
"During our meeting," President Bio continued, "I reiterated Sierra Leone's dedication to promoting accountability and safeguarding human rights throughout our term on the Security Council. I also emphasized our government's readiness to continue leading efforts to support the ICC in fulfilling its mandates and serving its constituency."
He concluded by expressing Sierra Leone's eagerness to collaborate with the ICC during its tenure on the Security Council, with a shared vision of advancing priorities that contribute to a more just, safe, and secure world.