China has expressed its readiness to bolster the alignment of development strategies with Sierra Leone, aiming to implement projects that enhance the economy and improve people’s livelihoods. Chinese President Xi Jinping made these remarks during a meeting with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio in Beijing on Wednesday.
President Bio is visiting Beijing to attend the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), a platform that President Xi highlighted as an effective mechanism for advancing practical cooperation between China and Africa. Xi emphasized that with collaborative efforts, the summit will contribute to the modernization of African countries and strengthen the building of a China-Africa community with a shared future.
President Xi called for China and Sierra Leone to stand firmly together on issues concerning each other’s core interests and major concerns. He expressed China’s readiness to exchange experiences in state governance and to deepen cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, resources, and energy.
Furthermore, Xi stressed the importance of strengthening coordination under multilateral frameworks like the United Nations. He advocated for promoting unity among countries in the Global South to support an equal and orderly multipolar world and foster inclusive economic globalization that benefits all, safeguarding the interests of Africa and developing nations.
President Bio expressed appreciation for China’s support of Sierra Leone’s economic development. He voiced hope for continued close cooperation, particularly in agriculture and security. Praising the global initiatives proposed by Xi, Bio affirmed Sierra Leone’s willingness to enhance international multilateral collaboration with China.
"The Sierra Leonean side firmly adheres to the one-China policy and will continue to be China’s trustworthy friend," President Bio stated, reaffirming the strong ties and mutual trust between the two nations.
Reference(s):
China to enhance alignment of development strategies with Sierra Leone
cgtn.com
