Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has called for a more practical and inclusive approach to diplomacy as he joined global leaders at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) 2026 to explore how countries can work together in an increasingly uncertain world.
Speaking on a Leaders Panel themed “Diplomacy Against All Odds: How to Find Common Ground,” Dr. Sengeh shared the stage with the President of Comoros, Azali Assoumani, Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Yemen’s Prime Minister, Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak. The discussion focused on sustaining cooperation amid rising global tensions and economic pressures.
In his remarks, Dr. Sengeh noted that events in one part of the world now have immediate global consequences, explaining that conflicts in the Gulf region can quickly influence fuel prices across the world. This, he stressed, underscores the urgent need for countries to find common ground—within their borders, across their subregions, and globally.
He outlined three practical steps to guide this approach: maintaining dialogue even in disagreement, sustaining engagement despite differences, and taking action based on shared aspirations. He emphasized that these are not abstract ideas, but principles actively being implemented in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Sengeh highlighted the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio, pointing to ongoing diplomatic engagement with neighbouring Guinea and Liberia to address border concerns, as well as broader regional cooperation through the Economic Community of West African States. He noted that these efforts are strengthening trust, preserving stability, and advancing regional integration.
The Chief Minister further emphasized that diplomacy is directly linked to development outcomes. He explained that sustained peace, cooperation, and regional integration are essential to delivering Sierra Leone’s “Big Five Game Changers,” including human capital development, food security, job creation, infrastructure expansion, and improved public service delivery.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the principle of Radical Inclusion, noting that inclusive dialogue and collective action remain central to building a fair, resilient, and forward-looking society.
Dr. Sengeh concluded by acknowledging the complexities of the current global landscape, while expressing confidence that consistent dialogue, meaningful engagement, and decisive action will enable Sierra Leone and its partners to navigate challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum continues to serve as a key platform for global leaders and policymakers to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships aimed at promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development.
