Sierra Leone, Saudi Arabia Discuss Cooperation in AI, Culture and Investment

Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia are considering broader cooperation in artificial intelligence, information, cultural exchange and investment following discussions between Information and Civic Education Minister Chernor Bah and Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Sierra Leone, Saud Al-Musa’ed.

Bah held the talks during a courtesy visit to the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Freetown. The meeting focused on ways to build on the longstanding relationship between the two countries and identify areas for closer practical engagement.

Technology and knowledge sharing

Emerging technologies were among the areas highlighted by the minister. Bah pointed to Saudi Arabia’s capabilities in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies, saying Sierra Leone could benefit from closer engagement, knowledge sharing and cooperation.

The discussions did not identify specific technology projects or provide a timetable for new initiatives. However, artificial intelligence was identified as a potential area for expanded bilateral cooperation.

Cultural and institutional links

Bah also identified cultural exchange as an area where the two countries could strengthen their relationship. He proposed greater cultural collaboration through the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation, with the view that exchanges could support mutual understanding and stronger people-to-people relations.

The minister further proposed discussions on a possible memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Saudi Embassy. Such an agreement, according to the position attributed to Bah, could offer a framework for identifying areas of cooperation and pursuing joint initiatives over time.

No memorandum has been confirmed, and the discussions have not produced details on its possible contents, timing or format.

Investment opportunities

Investment also featured prominently in the meeting. Bah encouraged stronger engagement with Saudi investors, saying increased Saudi investment could contribute to Sierra Leone’s economic growth and broader development ambitions.

The talks did not name specific investment projects, funding commitments or sectors targeted for investment. They instead addressed the possibility of creating stronger links with Saudi Arabia’s investment community.

Al-Musa’ed reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its relationship with Sierra Leone. He also expressed the Kingdom’s readiness to continue working with Sierra Leone in areas of shared interest.

The ambassador is described as Saudi Arabia’s first resident ambassador to Sierra Leone. The two officials agreed to maintain regular consultations as they explore opportunities in information, cultural exchange, technology, investment and other areas of mutual interest.

The discussions are part of a broader effort to develop the longstanding friendship and diplomatic relationship between Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia. The source report also noted Saudi Arabia’s continued friendship and support for Sierra Leone, including contributions to various development initiatives.