By: James Kamara-Manneh
In anticipation of the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations, the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone has announced a significant donation to support those in need. The embassy has pledged to donate 800 bags of 25 kg rice, 60 barrels of 10-liter cooking oil, and 20 bags of 50 kg sugar to religious organizations in Sierra Leone. This initiative aims to assist individuals facing hardship during the festive season.
The decision to donate was made in response to a request from Minister Karminty of the Ministry of Social Welfare, with whom the embassy has maintained strong ties. This contribution underscores China’s commitment to mutual respect, good neighborliness, poverty alleviation, and charity, reflecting the traditional values of the Chinese nation.
China and Sierra Leone share a longstanding friendship, spanning over 50 years of diplomatic relations. Over the years, China has provided significant support to Sierra Leone through various infrastructure and livelihood projects, demonstrating the depth of bilateral cooperation and friendship.
The recent state visit of H.E. President Julius Maada Bio to China further strengthened ties between the two nations. Both presidents reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing practical cooperation and deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Sierra Leone.
During the visit, several bilateral cooperation documents were signed, outlining areas of collaboration such as the Belt and Road Initiative, agriculture, economic development, and global development initiatives. These agreements signify a new era of cooperation and mutual benefit between the two countries.
In addition to the donation, the embassy also highlighted China’s ethnic and religious policies, emphasizing principles of equality, freedom of religious belief, and inclusive development. China’s efforts to promote dialogue, exchange, and mutual learning among different ethnic and religious groups were underscored, with a particular focus on combating discrimination and fostering harmonious coexistence.
Minister Melrose Karminty and the representatives of Islamic religious organizations in Sierra Leone thanked the Chinese Embassy for its generous donations for many years, and looked forward to strengthening mutual understanding and friendship with the Chinese side, so as to promote new progress in Sierra Leone-China relations.
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, the Chinese Embassy extends its warm wishes to all Muslim friends in Sierra Leone, expressing hope for enduring friendship and cooperation between China and Sierra Leone.
This donation reflects China’s commitment to supporting the well-being of the Sierra Leonean people and deepening the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
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