Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, along with senior government officials, participated in the 75th-anniversary celebration of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, reaffirming the deep and enduring relationship between the two nations.
The event, held at the Chinese Embassy in Freetown, attracted key dignitaries from Sierra Leone, including ministers, the Chief Justice, members of parliament, diplomats, and Chinese nationals.
In his remarks, Vice President Jalloh expressed gratitude for the invitation and highlighted Sierra Leone’s pivotal role in China’s global ascent, recalling the nation’s support for China’s admission to the United Nations Security Council in 1971. “We cherish the Sierra Leone-China relationship,” he stated, underscoring the significant presence of Sierra Leonean officials as a reflection of the strong ties between the two countries.
Speaking on behalf of H.E. President Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Jalloh congratulated China on its 75th anniversary, lauding its remarkable development and resilience. He also advocated for reforms within the United Nations Security Council, calling for permanent African representation, a cause championed by President Bio. “We look forward to China’s continued support for this reform,” the Vice President added.
Reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with China, Dr. Jalloh emphasized that the longstanding partnership will continue to foster collaboration and create new growth opportunities.
Sierra Leone’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Francess Piagie Alghali, also delivered a speech commending China’s transformation from an agrarian society into a global economic powerhouse over the past 75 years.
She acknowledged China’s significant contributions to Sierra Leone’s development, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Alghali further emphasized the importance of China’s commitment to multilateralism, especially in tackling global challenges like climate change and public health, while reiterating Sierra Leone’s support for Security Council reforms to enhance Africa’s participation.
Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Wang Qing, in his address, reflected on China’s achievements in poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare. He praised the enduring partnership between China and Sierra Leone, highlighting key cooperative initiatives such as constructing the national stadium and China’s assistance during the Ebola and COVID-19 crises.
The event concluded with mutual optimism for the future of Sierra Leone-China relations, as both nations celebrated 75 years of China’s progress and their steadfast diplomatic ties.