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The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong, on Thursday, 12 March 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, at the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters in Freetown, where discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in security, investment, and national development.
The visit highlighted the growing partnership between China and Sierra Leone, particularly in promoting a safe and stable environment for economic activities and foreign investment.
Ambassador Zhao commended the country’s improving security climate and ongoing economic progress, noting that the current atmosphere provides a favourable environment for both citizens and investors. He observed that Sierra Leone continues to stand out as comparatively peaceful, attributing much of the progress to the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.
Highlighting China’s developmental engagement in the country, the Ambassador pointed to several landmark projects supported by China. These include the construction of the fish harbour at Black Johnson, the rehabilitation of the National Stadium, the ongoing upgrade of the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital at Jui, and the Smart City initiative projects, he said, demonstrate the depth of bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Zhao also emphasized that the Chinese Embassy consistently encourages Chinese nationals living and working in Sierra Leone to remain law-abiding, respect local customs, and maintain peaceful relations with host communities.
Responding, IGP Sellu welcomed the Ambassador and acknowledged the longstanding diplomatic and development partnership between the two countries. He cited the Sierra Leone Police Headquarters on George Street, originally built with Chinese support and currently undergoing refurbishment, as a testament to that enduring relationship.
The Police Chief also expressed appreciation for past capacity-building programmes and logistical assistance provided to the Sierra Leone Police by the Chinese government.
IGP Sellu further disclosed that the Sierra Leone Police has established a dedicated liaison desk within the Criminal Investigations Department to facilitate communication between Chinese investors and the Chinese Embassy, ensuring prompt attention to issues affecting the Chinese community.
Reaffirming the country’s stability, the IGP noted that Sierra Leone continues to be recognised among the most peaceful countries in West Africa and across Africa according to the Global Peace Index. He assured the Ambassador of the Sierra Leone Police’s continued cooperation in maintaining security and strengthening bilateral ties.
