At the “Face to Face with China” event held yesterday at the Chinese Embassy in Freetown, the Chinese Ambassador Wang Qing addressed the media on the latest developments in China and emphasized the importance of strengthening China-Sierra Leone relations. The ambassador focused on two significant events: the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, highlighting their potential impact on bilateral relations.

“Today is an opportunity to renew our friendship and exchange views on issues of mutual interest,” said Ambassador Wang. “We appreciate your keen interest in China’s developments and are eager to share insights on our ongoing reforms and collaboration efforts.”

The ambassador elaborated on the outcomes of the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which took place in Beijing in July. This session is considered a landmark event in China’s governance and development strategy. It outlined a comprehensive road map for reforms across 14 key areas, including democracy, rule of law, culture, society, ecology, and people’s livelihoods.

Ambassador Wang emphasized two critical messages from the session:

Firstly, he highlighted commitment reform “We are dedicated to pushing forward reforms,” Wang stated, “with over 300 major initiatives set to be implemented across various sectors.” The session highlighted the necessity of improving institutions, mechanisms, and strategic reforms to foster high-quality development.

Next, High-Standard Opening Up he said “China is committed to aligning with international economic and trade standards,” Wang added. “We aim to create a transparent, stable, and predictable environment for both domestic and foreign investors.” The session introduced measures to reduce market access restrictions, expand institutional openness, and foster a market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business environment.

Wang highlighted the historical significance of China’s reform and opening-up policy, noting its role in transforming China into the world’s second-largest economy and lifting over 700 million people out of poverty. “Reform and opening-up are crucial not only for China’s future but also for global economic stability,” he noted.

The second focal point of Wang’s presentation was the upcoming FOCAC summit, scheduled to take place in Beijing in early September. This summit will bring together leaders from China and 53 African countries to discuss future development and cooperation.

“FOCAC has been a cornerstone of China-Africa relations since its inception in 2000,” Wang remarked. “It has facilitated substantial progress in political, economic, and cultural cooperation between China and Africa.”

China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with trade reaching USD 282 billion in 2023. “We are committed to enhancing our trade relationship by increasing imports of non-resource products from Africa and offering zero-tariff treatment to 98 percent of taxable items exported to China by African countries,” Wang stated.

Wang also highlighted the growing cooperation in investment and financing, particularly in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and digital economy. “China’s support has enabled African countries to upgrade their industries and improve their capacity to earn foreign exchange,” he said.

Ambassador Wang also reflected on the state visit by Sierra Leone’s President, H.E. Julius Maada Bio, to China earlier this year. “The two heads of state reached extensive consensus on deepening our comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership,” Wang noted. “We are making tangible progress in agriculture, human capital development, youth employment, and infrastructure.”

Wang highlighted specific initiatives, including the China-Aided Fish Harbour Project and the renovation of the National Stadium. “These projects are not only symbols of our friendship but also vital contributors to Sierra Leone’s economic development,” he added.

Ambassador Wang concluded his presentation by inviting Sierra Leonean media and organizations to actively participate in the FOCAC summit. “Through our continued collaboration, we can enhance our long-standing friendship and open new vistas for common development,” he stated.

The event, attended by government officials and members of the media, provided a platform for discussing the future of China-Sierra Leone relations and exploring opportunities for cooperation.