By: Amara Kargbo
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has formally received 15 protocol vehicles donated by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to support Sierra Leone’s preparations for the forthcoming ECOWAS Summit.
The handover ceremony, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room on 7 July 2026, underscored the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China. The donation comes at a crucial time as Sierra Leone prepares to host Heads of State and Government, ministers, diplomats and other delegates from across the West African sub-region.
Speaking at the ceremony, officials described the donation as a timely and significant contribution that will strengthen the country’s logistical preparedness for the summit. The vehicles are expected to enhance transportation arrangements and ensure the smooth, efficient and dignified movement of visiting Heads of State, government officials and other high-level guests.
The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Zhao Yong, said the donation reflects the long-standing friendship between the people of China and Sierra Leone and demonstrates China’s continued support for Sierra Leone’s development and growing leadership role within the sub-region.
He noted that the gesture represents another practical example of the strong and mutually beneficial cooperation that has continued to define relations between the two countries over the years.
Receiving the vehicles on behalf of the Government of Sierra Leone, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Alhaji Timothy Musa Kabba, expressed profound appreciation to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China for their generous support.
The Minister described the donation as a clear demonstration of the strong bilateral relationship founded on mutual respect, cooperation and shared development priorities.
He stated that the vehicles will play a vital role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s capacity to host a successful ECOWAS Summit while reflecting the country’s commitment to excellence, hospitality and regional integration. He further commended the Chinese Embassy for its swift coordination and unwavering commitment in ensuring the timely delivery of the vehicles ahead of the summit.
Minister Kabba also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with China across key sectors, including trade, infrastructure, education and healthcare. He emphasized that the partnership between the two countries continues to deliver tangible development benefits and remains a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s international cooperation agenda.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing and presentation of the handover documents, followed by a joint inspection of the vehicles by Ambassador Zhao Yong and Minister Kabba.
The donation marks another significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China, highlighting the shared commitment of both nations to sustainable development, regional cooperation and stronger diplomatic relations.