The Deputy National Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), the Deputy Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, and National Chairman Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Chinese Ambassador, H.E. Zhao Jong, in a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic and party-to-party relations.
The visit was in reciprocation of a recent engagement by the Ambassador and served as an opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding ties between Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China.
During the meeting, Sir Jimmy Batilo Songa conveyed appreciation to the Chinese leadership for its continued support to the SLPP-led government under President Julius Maada Bio.
He noted that China’s contributions have played a significant role in advancing key sectors of Sierra Leone’s development, particularly healthcare, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Highlighting ongoing cooperation, Songa referenced China’s technical assistance to the 34 Military Hospital, the provision of medical services in rural communities, and investments in the iron ore sector in Tonkolili District.
He also acknowledged China’s emergency rice aid to support national food security, as well as educational opportunities offered to Sierra Leoneans in various fields of study.
The SLPP Chairman further called for sustained support to the Bio administration and emphasized the importance of deepening collaboration between the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Discussions also explored avenues for expanding cooperation between the two parties.
In his remarks, Ambassador Zhao Jong expressed appreciation for the visit and underscored the significance of over five decades of diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone.
He reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening this partnership and enhancing cooperation at both government and party levels.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing confidence in the future of Sierra Leone–China relations and reaffirming their shared commitment to continued collaboration for mutual development.
