His Excellency Wang Qing, the new Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone has stated that the new Chinese development with Sierra Leone will focus on improving the well-being of Sierra Leoneans through Agriculture, Health and make the cooperation between the two countries sustainable.
He made that disclosure in a courtesy meeting with the Minister of Finance, Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, on Friday, 24th February 2023, at his George Street office in Freetown.
Both gentlemen discussed the 55 years’ relationship between Sierra Leone and China and how it has mutually benefited both countries.
Ambassador Qing also stated that China has supported Sierra Leone with landmark infrastructure projects and livelihood assistance to promote the well-being of Sierra Leoneans through Health, Education and even private sector development.
Minister Bangura thanked the Ambassador for his visit and appreciated China for all they have done over the years.
He encouraged the Ambassador to engage Chinese investors, to invest in manufacturing and agriculture.
Deputy Minister Bockarie Kalokoh also admonished the Ambassador to explore the potential in the Agricultural sector and plead for the Embassy to consider the proposed building of a multi-storey complex to house the Ministry of Finance on Lightfoot Boston Street.
In another development, the Minister of Finance also met with members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sierra Leone (ICASL) to discuss how to deepen cooperation and collaboration with the Government to improve transparency and accountability.
Among several issues raised by the President of ICASL, Blanche Gooding was clarifying the issues around the press release on the Auditor General’s suspension, renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), between the Ministry of Finance and the Institute, Enacted that ICASL Act and payment of 2023 subvention.
Minister of Finance Sheku Bangura assured them of the support and cooperation of the Ministry of Finance, stating that ICASL is a body full of experts that can be useful to the Government in terms of deepening engagement in policy formulation.
