Guinea’s Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah on Thursday downplayed border tensions with Sierra Leone, promising a swift and complete resolution soon.
Freetown accused Guinean soldiers of crossing the border on Tuesday, detaining Sierra Leonean troops and police after a brief, tense clash.
Guinea’s army countered the claim, asserting that Sierra Leonean soldiers had actually crossed into Guinean territory, escalating the confusion further.
In Conakry, Bah told reporters the dispute was being managed through diplomacy, with discussions ongoing to prevent further military incidents.
“The situation will be completely resolved during the day,” Bah said, emphasising Guinea’s willingness to engage but also defend its territory.
The Prime Minister added Guinea remained open to dialogue on border matters, while remaining prepared to preserve national territorial integrity if necessary.
Guinea and Sierra Leone share a 700-kilometre border, with previous troop movements last April and May sparking fear among local communities.
The latest incident occurred in Yenga, a village contested for more than 20 years, where Guinean soldiers still maintain a presence.
Both nations participate in regional groups, including ECOWAS and the Mano River Union, which includes Liberia and Ivory Coast, fostering dialogue channels.
Tensions along the border highlight longstanding territorial disputes, but officials insist diplomacy remains the preferred method to avoid escalation and civilian panic.