The Mano River Union (MRU) Secretariat has taken note of recent reports concerning developments in the Falabah District/Faranah Prefecture along the border between the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea.

In line with its mandate to promote peace, security, and regional stability as prescribed by the 15th Protocol on Peace, Security and Defence, the MRU Secretariat is undertaking appropriate steps to establish the facts on the ground, including engagement with relevant local authorities and stakeholders in the affected border communities of both Member States. This process is intended to provide the basis for constructive dialogue that will contribute to a clear understanding of the situation.

The MRU Secretariat is also engaging the Governments of Sierra Leone and the Government of Guinea with a view to encouraging them to exercise continued restraint and the use of established diplomatic and bilateral mechanisms to address the matter peacefully and in a spirit of cooperation. The Secretariat stands ready to support ongoing efforts aimed at de-escalation and the preservation of cordial relations between the two sisterly Member States.

The Secretariat reaffirms its commitment to supporting Member States in addressing cross-border issues through dialogue, confidence-building, and collaborative solutions in the interest of regional harmony.

Signed:

Amb. Simeon Moribah

Secretary General

Mano River Union Secretariat

32s Fudia Terrace, Spur Loop,

Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Email: info@mru.int

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