By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Executive Secretary of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC), Hawa Sally Samai, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation on peacebuilding and national development.
The meeting underscored the longstanding relationship between the ICPNC and the Chinese Embassy, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, social cohesion and sustainable development across the country.
During discussions, Hawa Sally Samai highlighted the critical role of partnerships in advancing the Commission’s mandate of fostering peaceful coexistence and national unity. She emphasized that sustained collaboration with international partners such as China remains essential in supporting initiatives that address social divisions and enhance stability in Sierra Leone.
The engagement also explored opportunities for expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in initiatives that promote inclusive dialogue, conflict prevention and community-based peacebuilding efforts. Both parties acknowledged the importance of maintaining open channels of communication and leveraging strategic partnerships to achieve long-term national cohesion.
In response, Ambassador Zhao Yong expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the ICPNC for its ongoing efforts in promoting peace and unity across Sierra Leone. He reaffirmed the Chinese Embassy’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with the Government of Sierra Leone and relevant institutions in support of national development and stability.
The ICPNC, in turn, expressed gratitude for the consistent support and engagement of the Chinese Embassy, noting that such partnerships play a vital role in strengthening institutional capacity and advancing the country’s peacebuilding agenda.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism about deepening cooperation and sustaining joint efforts aimed at fostering a more peaceful, cohesive and prosperous Sierra Leone.
