By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Chinese Embassy in Freetown was the site of a historic event on January 8, 2025, as Ambassador Wang Qing, in collaboration with Timothy Musa Kabba, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Professor David J. Francis, a former Foreign Minister launched the first-ever comprehensive documentation of the 54-year friendship between China and Sierra Leone. It was a book edited by Professor David J. Francis.
The book, titled: “China-Sierra Leone Relations: Friendship, Cooperation and Win-Win Diplomacy,” provides an in-depth analysis of the historical, cultural and geopolitical ties between the two nations. The event underscored the enduring bond and mutual respect that have characterized the relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties on July 29, 1971.
In his keynote address, Timothy Musa Kabba described the book as a vital academic and policy tool that encapsulates the progress and significance of China-Sierra Leone relations. He highlighted how the partnership has evolved over the years, yielding mutual benefits and fostering sustainable development.
The minister commended China’s contributions to Sierra Leone, particularly in infrastructure projects such as the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital and the fish power project. He praised China’s advocacy for a reformed international market system and its solidarity with developing nations.
Timothy Musa Kabba also lauded President Xi Jinping’s global initiatives, emphasizing their focus on connectivity, development cooperation and common security. He highlighted the resilience of Sierra Leone’s economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing significant foreign direct investment in the mining sector.
Concluding his address, the minister called for effective management of partnerships and reforms in international institutions to reflect contemporary realities, reiterating the strategic importance of the China-Sierra Leone relationship in education, culture and international diplomacy.
Ambassador Wang Qing celebrated the launch as a milestone in China-Sierra Leone relations. He expressed gratitude to Professor Francis and his team for their dedication to the project and emphasized the book’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.
The Ambassador highlighted key milestones in the partnership, including the establishment of a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in 2016. He praised the unwavering political trust and mutual respect between the two nations, even amid shifting global dynamics.
Ambassador Wang noted significant progress in areas such as infrastructure, education, human resource development and trade, reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development while respecting its sovereignty. He concluded by underscoring China’s role as Sierra Leone’s largest trading partner and its support for Sierra Leone on the global stage.
Professor David J. Francis reflected on the unique significance of the China-Sierra Leone relationship. He explored why a relatively small nation like Sierra Leone holds such importance to a global superpower like China, pointing to shared values and strategic interests.
The former Foreign Affairs Minister emphasized that the book serves as the first comprehensive academic and policy-relevant documentation of the bilateral relationship, offering insights into its historical evolution and dynamics. He acknowledged the contributions of academics, policy practitioners and the Chinese Government in making the project a reality.
The professor also highlighted the strategic role Sierra Leone plays in China’s global agenda, including its support for Sierra Leone’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.
The book launch was not just an academic milestone but a celebration of a partnership that has grown stronger over more than five decades. It serves as a recognition of the contributions of individuals and institutions in fostering the China-Sierra Leone relationship, which continues to flourish across various sectors.
The event was attended by diplomats, Government officials, academics and members of the public, marking a momentous occasion in the history of China-Sierra Leone relations.
