The newly appointed Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong, has committed to deepen bilateral ties with Sierra Leone during his courtesy visit to the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor M. Bah, at his Youyi Building office in Freetown.
Minister Bah warmly welcomed Ambassador Zhao and expressed Sierra Leone’s appreciation for China’s long-standing friendship and support. He commended the significant progress achieved through bilateral relations over the years and conveyed optimism about further strengthening cooperation in key development sectors.
During the meeting, both parties discussed ongoing and proposed initiatives, including collaboration on capacity building, study tours, and investment opportunities. Minister Bah specifically requested China’s support for the refurbishment of the Miatta Civic Centre and the provision of coastal buses to enhance civic engagement programs nationwide.
He also highlighted the ongoing modernization of the Government Printing Department, a project supported by the Chinese private company Diming Yimo Printing Company in partnership with the Government Printer. The company is investing five million U.S. dollars to transform the facility into a modern, state-of-the-art printing complex.
“We expect to invite the Ambassador to the official opening of the refurbished Government Printing Department in April, as part of our Independence Day celebrations,” Minister Bah said. “This partnership symbolizes growing opportunities between China and Sierra Leone, not only at the government-to-government level but also through people-to-people and business-to-business cooperation.”
Minister Bah confirmed that the agreement between the Government Printing Department and the Ministry has already received Cabinet and Attorney General’s approval, with work currently underway. He emphasized that the initiative represents a major turnaround for a facility that had long been neglected.
In response, Ambassador Zhao Yong expressed his commitment to deepening bilateral ties and pledged to consider Sierra Leone’s proposals. He noted that 2026 marks the 56th anniversary of China-Sierra Leone diplomatic relations and assured that the Chinese Embassy would continue promoting Sierra Leone’s stories and cultural attractions to the Chinese people.
The meeting highlighted both nations’ shared commitment to enhancing partnership, fostering mutual understanding, and expanding cooperation for sustainable development.
