Monrovia — On Tuesday, three presidential nominees for ambassadorial roles appeared before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for confirmation hearings. The nominees–Edward Appleton, Ambassador-Designate to Japan; Ali Sylla, Ambassador-Designate to Senegal; and Joseph Johnson, Ambassador-Designate to Morocco–pledged their commitment to advancing Liberia’s interests if confirmed by the Senate.
Edward Appleton and Joseph Johnson presented plans to utilize their diplomatic roles to attract investment opportunities, supporting Liberia’s economic development alongside their representation of the nation abroad.
Ali Sylla, the nominee for Ambassador to Senegal, delivered an impassioned presentation, emphasizing his qualifications and a vision for strengthening Liberia-Senegal relations. A seasoned diplomat, Sylla committed to fostering regional collaboration and advancing Liberia’s strategic interests.
“This nomination exemplifies our nation’s dedication to enhancing partnerships and increasing engagement across the African continent,” Sylla remarked. “If confirmed, I will leverage my experience to further Liberia’s interests in Senegal and other countries of accreditation, including The Gambia, Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, and Cape Verde.”
Sylla, who holds advanced degrees in criminal justice and international relations, highlighted his extensive diplomatic experience, including his current role as Head of Mission at Liberia’s Embassy in Qatar. He described Senegal as “a cornerstone of regional stability” and a model of democracy in West Africa.
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He outlined priorities that include strengthening security cooperation, advancing infrastructure development, and fostering economic growth. “With Senegal’s strategic position in ECOWAS and the African Union, we can align our efforts to promote regional integration and advance Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for peace, stability, and development,” he added.
Sylla also emphasized the potential for trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations. “I intend to cultivate strong relationships with the Senegalese government and private sector to facilitate Liberia’s economic growth and create meaningful opportunities for our citizens,” he stated.
In a poignant moment, Sylla paid tribute to his late parents, Alhaji Souleymane Sylla and Haja Tidanke Sesay, respected Islamic leaders who were tragically killed during Liberia’s civil war. “Their loss is felt deeply,” he said, “but they instilled in me enduring values of service, respect, and humility, which remain my guiding light.”
If confirmed, Sylla vowed to lead the Liberian Embassy in Dakar with “unwavering dedication,” ensuring the protection of Liberians residing in Senegal while advancing bilateral relations.
The hearing was ultimately postponed to a later date by Senate Committee Chairman on Foreign Affairs, Senator Darius Dillon, due to a power outage.
