The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Zhao Yong, on Thursday, 12 March 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, at the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters in Freetown.
During the visit, Ambassador Zhao expressed admiration for the prevailing safety, security, and economic progress in Sierra Leone. He said he was impressed by the improvements in the country’s security landscape and economic development, which he noted have created a conducive environment for citizens and businesses to operate freely.
The Ambassador further stated that Sierra Leone remains comparatively safer than many other countries and commended the government for the social and economic progress achieved under the leadership of President Brigadier (Rtd) Julius Maada Bio. According to him, these developments have paved the way for national growth and improved living standards for the people.
Ambassador Zhao also highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between China and Sierra Leone, emphasizing the strong trade and investment ties between the two nations. He pointed to several major Chinese-supported projects in the country, including the construction of the fish harbour at Black Johnson, the rehabilitation of the National Stadium, the ongoing upgrade of the China–Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital at Jui, and the Smart City project.
He further noted that one of the responsibilities of the Chinese Embassy is to continually advise Chinese nationals living in Sierra Leone to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and respectful of the country’s laws, culture, and religious values.
The Ambassador concluded by assuring the Inspector General of Police of the Chinese Embassy’s continued support and cooperation with the Sierra Leone Police.
In his response, IGP William Fayia Sellu thanked the Ambassador for the visit and reaffirmed the long-standing diplomatic and development partnership between China and Sierra Leone. He cited the Police Headquarters on George Street in Freetown originally constructed with Chinese support and currently undergoing refurbishment as a symbol of that enduring relationship.
The IGP also acknowledged the capacity-building initiatives and logistical support previously provided to the Sierra Leone Police by the Chinese government through the Ambassador’s predecessor.
He further informed the Ambassador that the Sierra Leone Police has established a special desk at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to serve as a liaison office between Chinese investors and the Chinese Embassy.
IGP Sellu maintained that Sierra Leone continues to enjoy relative peace and stability, noting that the country has been ranked among the most peaceful nations in West Africa and across the African continent according to the Global Peace Index.
He assured Ambassador Zhao of the Sierra Leone Police’s continued cooperation and support whenever needed.
