At the invitation of the Government of Sierra Leone, Liu Guozhong, a Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council has visited Sierra Leone on Wednesday 12th November 2025. The marks the maiden milestone in the history of Sierra Leone as well as China-Sierra Leone bilateral relations.
Prior to his visit in Sierra Leone, the Vice Premier Liu met with Guinean leader Mamadi Doumbouya to commission the Simandou iron ore mine project on November 11. He did the inauguration in his capacity as Special Representative of President Xi Jinping.
This high-profile event marks a significant milestone in the development of the Simandou mine, one of the world’s largest untapped iron ore reserves, which is expected to have a transformative impact on both Guinea’s economy and its long-term relationship with China.
The Simandou project is a key part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Africa, underscoring the strengthening of bilateral ties between China and Guinea.
The inauguration of the mine represents not only a major investment in infrastructure and industrial development but also a significant boost to Guinea’s mineral sector, which is poised to benefit from enhanced export potential and job creation.
Vice Premier Liu’s visit is expected to further deepen cooperation between China and Sierra Leone, building on their shared economic and developmental interests. In addition to attending the inauguration, Liu will engage in high-level discussions with Guinean and Sierra Leonean officials to explore new avenues for economic cooperation, regional integration, and collaboration in the context of China’s evolving role in West Africa.
This visit reflects China’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnerships in Africa and to supporting sustainable development across the continent through infrastructure investments, trade, and joint economic initiatives.