The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs hosted a high-level meeting with a visiting Russian delegation to discuss potential opportunities for increased cultural exchange and cooperation between Sierra Leone and Russia. The Office of the Vice President facilitated the delegation’s visit, which included Hon. Sahr Emerson Lamina, who welcomed the guests and emphasised the importance of the engagement as a tool for identifying mutually beneficial areas of collaboration.
During the session, participants worked on strengthening cultural ties through structured exchange programs. Presentations and discussions focused on promoting Russian culture and identifying opportunities for collaborative projects that would benefit both countries’ cultural and educational goals. Natalia Krasvoskaia, speaking on behalf of the Russian delegation, described the Centre for Public Diplomacy’s activities, including its emphasis on cultural diplomacy, as a way to foster stronger dialogue between Russia and African nations. She described how the Centre facilitates youth- and women’s dialogue initiatives, organises educational exchanges, and implements broader cultural programs across the continent.
Krasvoskaia also disclosed the Centre’s plans to expand its presence in Africa, including the possibility of opening a representative office in Sierra Leone. She suggested that such an office would help to deepen cooperation in areas such as education, science, technology, and culture, as well as serve as a platform for long-term people-to-people engagement.
Nabeela Tunis, Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, welcomed the initiative and reiterated the government’s willingness to collaborate on tourism development and cultural enrichment. Judith C. Jones, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, presented an overview of the Ministry’s mandate and highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting Sierra Leone’s cultural assets and tourism potential. Mohamed Jalloh, Director of Tourism, Travel and Exchange Programs, described the Ministry’s current work and identified potential collaboration opportunities for future programming.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing gratitude for the constructive dialogue and optimism for future collaboration in the cultural and tourism sectors.
