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The Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, hosted a commemorative event at its Spur Loop compound in Wilberforce to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The event brought together Chinese diplomats, Sierra Leonean government and military officials, as well as members of the diplomatic and defense communities.
The occasion highlighted the PLA’s evolution since its establishment in 1927 and emphasized the continued cooperation between the Chinese and Sierra Leonean armed forces. Attendees reflected on the military’s historical contributions, global peacekeeping role, and China’s growing involvement in Africa’s defense capacity-building.
China’s Defense Attaché to Sierra Leone, Senior Colonel Pu Lin, delivered remarks tracing the PLA’s development under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. He described the PLA as a modernized force focused on safeguarding national sovereignty and contributing to international peace and security. Colonel Pu also highlighted China’s deployment of more than 50,000 troops in peacekeeping missions and its engagement in humanitarian efforts worldwide.
In the context of bilateral relations, he underscored China’s military assistance to Sierra Leone, which includes personnel training, medical cooperation, and infrastructure support. Notably, over 2,000 Sierra Leonean participants benefited from a recent medical capacity-building initiative, and China has contributed to defense related infrastructure projects in the country.
Representing the Government of Sierra Leone, Deputy Minister of Defense Colonel (Rtd) Muana Brima Massaquoi acknowledged China’s ongoing support in strengthening Sierra Leone’s military and health sectors. He cited China’s role during national crises, such as the Ebola outbreak in 2014 and the COVID-19 pandemic, during which China provided vaccines, medical supplies, and technical assistance.
Colonel Massaquoi called for continued collaboration, particularly in equipping the newly completed 600-bed military hospital in Sierra Leone. He further recognized the deepening defense ties facilitated by the establishment of the PLA Defense Attaché’s office in Freetown in 2024.
The event also featured a ceremonial toast led by Chinese Ambassador Wang Qing, who reaffirmed China’s commitment to enhancing bilateral ties. Ambassador Wang emphasized shared aspirations for peace, prosperity, and a strong strategic partnership between the two nations.
The reception concluded with a mutual commitment to advancing military and developmental cooperation, reflecting broader efforts to deepen China Africa relations through defense diplomacy and strategic engagement.
