By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Tuesday, March 4, 2025: The Minister of Internal Affairs, Morie Lengor Esq, welcomed the Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Wang Qing, and his team during a courtesy visit to his office to discuss bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Wang Qing emphasized the significance of the bilateral cooperation between China and Sierra Leone, applauding the Sierra Leonean government for their continued support in protecting the Chinese community in the country. He expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s ongoing support to the Chinese Embassy and highlighted major achievements of China’s cooperation in various sectors, including infrastructure projects such as the national stadium, Youyi Building, and the Foreign Service Academy.
The Ambassador stated that these efforts would provide strategic guidance for their bilateral relations. He also discussed foreign investment projects, focusing on their contributions to Sierra Leone’s employment and revenue generation. Additionally, he elaborated on capacity building and collaboration between China and key institutions in Sierra Leone.
Ambassador Wang appreciated the Ministry for their close and fruitful working relationship and expressed optimism for a shared future of mutual development and prosperity. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening China-Africa cooperation for the benefit of both countries.
In response, Minister Lengor Esq, on behalf of President Brig. Rtd Julius Maada Bio, expressed sincere gratitude to Ambassador Wang for his visit and acknowledged China’s numerous support over the years. He highlighted the comprehensive review of their strategic relationship with China, which has spanned decades, and the extensive efforts involved in driving this valuable bilateral cooperation.
Minister Lengor informed the Ambassador about the various agencies and departments under his Ministry’s purview and underscored his vision for developing a Strategic Master Plan (SMP) to guide the Ministry in service delivery. He disclosed that the SMP is in its final draft stage, with inputs from all heads of agencies and departments, and noted that external consultations and partner support would be solicited.
The Minister emphasized the importance of strategic bilateral cooperation between the two countries. He acknowledged China’s visible investments in Sierra Leone and noted that the protection of these investments falls under the Ministry’s responsibility for internal security. To ensure the stability and security of these investments, he stressed the need for a symbiotic relationship between the investments and the security sector.
Minister Lengor also sought support for his Ministry and its agencies in areas such as mobility, logistics, and equipment, particularly for the National Fire Force, to enable them to promptly respond to fire incidents and other security-related issues. He concluded by pledging his Ministry’s close collaboration and support to the Chinese Embassy, assuring them of a better and more fruitful relationship.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of a gift from Ambassador Wang Qing to Minister Lengor Esq, in recognition of his appointment.