On Thursday, July 27, 2023, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Sierra Leone orchestrated the third edition of the "Face to Face with China" event, marking a significant step towards enhancing mutual understanding and strengthening bonds between the two nations.
The event, hosted at the Chinese Embassy's premises on Spur Loop, gathered influential personalities and representatives from diverse sectors, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation.
Esteemed dignitaries, including the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Amb. Wang Qing, Ge Yao, Acting Political Director of the Chinese Embassy, officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Ministry of Information and Civic Education, representatives from China-Africa Institute of University of Makeni, Star TV, and journalists graced the occasion.
At the core of the event was the sharing of personal experiences from visits to China. Distinguished guests, Moses Kamara from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Alhaji Mohamed Jaward from the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Alpha Mohamed Jalloh from China-Africa Institute of University of Makeni, and George Elliot Sam from Star TV, eloquently recounted their enriching encounters in China.
In a compelling keynote address, Amb. Wang Qing emphasized the pivotal role of people-to-people exchange in solidifying the relationship between China and Sierra Leone. He shed light on recent developments in China, focusing on four vital areas:
Chinese Economic Growth: Amb. Wang Qing highlighted China's impressive GDP growth of 5.5 percent in the first half of the year, showcasing the country's steady recovery and economic resilience. Esteemed international organizations, including the UN, World Bank, and IMF, expressed confidence in China's economic prospects. Moreover, the growing interest of foreign companies to invest in China attests to the country's promising economic landscape.
Flourishing China-Africa Relations: Amb. Wang Qing underscored the success of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, a testament to the robust economic and trade cooperation between China and African nations. The cooperative efforts extended to various domains, including digital economy, green development, aerospace, and finance, bringing mutual benefits to both regions.
Nurturing China-U.S. Relations: Amb. Wang Qing stressed the significance of China-U.S. relations and highlighted recent high-level communication between the two nations as an opportunity to stabilize the relationship. He called for constructive actions to manage differences and expand collaboration across diverse sectors.
Strengthening China-Sierra Leone Relations: Amb. Wang Qing conveyed President Xi Jinping's warm congratulations to President Bio on his reelection following the recent presidential and parliamentary elections in Sierra Leone. China reassured its unwavering commitment to supporting Sierra Leone's economic and social development, fostering a brighter future for bilateral relations.
Amb. Wang Qing concluded his address by encouraging greater engagement and exchanges between the peoples of China and Sierra Leone, aiming to cultivate deeper understanding and lasting friendship. The "Face to Face with China" event served as a crucial platform for mutual learning and cooperation, solidifying the strong ties between the two nations.
As the 52nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone approaches, the event offered a moment of reflection to celebrate shared history and pursue mutual prosperity. The Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone reaffirmed its dedication to promoting friendship, cooperation, and lasting peace for the benefit of both nations and the global community.