In a keynote address delivered at the China-Sierra Leone Relations Symposium, Ambassador Wang Qing underscored the enduring friendship and fruitful cooperation between China and Sierra Leone. The symposium, held on the 16th of May, 2024, served as a platform to discuss shared interests and opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
Ambassador Wang began by commemorating the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone, emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship built on principles of equality, mutual trust, and mutual benefit. He praised the recent state visit of HE President Julius Maada Bio to China, during which both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The Ambassador highlighted the strategic significance of China-Sierra Leone relations in promoting a just and equitable international order. He called for greater cooperation between the two countries in advocating for multilateralism and opposing hegemony, stressing the importance of upholding the principles of equality among nations.
Addressing the issue of Taiwan, Ambassador Wang reiterated China’s firm stance on the one-China principle and expressed appreciation for Sierra Leone’s support in this regard. He emphasized the need to counter attempts to challenge this consensus and uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In terms of practical cooperation, Ambassador Wang emphasized the importance of synergizing development strategies between China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Sierra Leone’s Five Big Game Changers Agenda. He highlighted the potential for increased collaboration in areas such as infrastructure development, trade, and investment.
The Ambassador concluded by emphasizing the importance of deepening traditional friendship between China and Sierra Leone. He praised the mutual support demonstrated during crises such as Ebola and COVID-19 and called for continued efforts to foster understanding and trust between the peoples of both nations.
The China-Sierra Leone Relations Symposium provided a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the strong bond of friendship between the two countries and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation. As both nations look towards the future, Ambassador Wang expressed optimism for continued collaboration and mutual benefit.
