By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, engaged the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Wang Qing, at the Chinese Embassy in Freetown, seeking bilateral assistance for infrastructural development and enhanced transportation facilities for parliamentary oversight activities.
The meeting followed previous discussions on China’s support for Sierra Leone’s infrastructure. Ambassador Qing highlighted the strong bilateral relations between the two nations, noting their cooperation in economic and political spheres. He referenced eight agreements signed during President Bio’s last visit to China, underscoring China’s commitment to their implementation.
Deputy Speaker Conteh emphasized the longstanding diplomatic ties and China’s contributions, including support during the Ebola outbreak, construction of the Diplomatic Academy, rehabilitation of the National Stadium, and building of the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
Conteh highlighted the need for office spaces for Members of Parliament (MPs) and staff, citing challenges MPs face in executing their duties due to inadequate facilities. He requested the construction of a hall that can accommodate 300 people, with provisions for dividing it to create office spaces.
Conteh also requested transportation support to facilitate parliamentary oversight activities and expressed appreciation for previous Chinese contributions, including the construction of a market in Lumley.
Ambassador Qing acknowledged the requests, noting that the construction of the hall requires time, money, and planning. He suggested interim support with mobile offices for MPs and staff. Qing also proposed exchange visits to strengthen bilateral relations further.
Deputy Speaker Conteh assured the formation of a Parliamentary Committee on China-Sierra Leone Friendship to bolster the relationship between the two countries.
The Deputy Speaker was accompanied by the Acting Clerk of Parliament, a Protocol Officer, and a Public Relations Officer of the Parliament of Sierra Leone.