Chinese ambassador presents credentials to Sierra Leone president

The newly accredited Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone Wu Peng presented his letters of credence to Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma here Friday at a ceremony held at the State House.

In his address, Wu spoke of the long-standing relationship between the two countries and noted that the two countries have shared good and bad times and have always shown mutual support for each other's core interests and major concerns.

He commended President Koroma's leadership in developing the country's economy and his efforts in defeating the Ebola virus. As an important country in Africa that holds the presidency of the African Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government on the United Nations (UN) Security Council reform, Sierra Leone has made significant contributions to upholding the solidarity and fundamental interests of Africa and promoting regional peace and development.

He also mentioned the fruitful cooperation between the two countries in economy, culture and building a tangible health care system.

Ambassador Wu assured the government and people of Sierra Leone that China is ready to work with Sierra Leone to deepen the friendship and mutual trust and at the same time expand cooperation as both countries implement the "consensus reached between our leaders as well as the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Johannesburg Summit."

Accepting the ambassador's letters of credence, Koroma acknowledged the kind sentiments expressed by the envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

He appreciated the long-standing relationship between the two countries and commended China for the valuable role it has played in Sierra Leone's socio-economic development.

Noting that Sierra Leone has benefited a lot from China and that the two countries have supported each other at both bilateral and multilateral levels, Koroma said China has "been outstanding in her support of Sierra Leone's development efforts especially in the areas of agriculture, education and building a resilient health care system."

Describing China as a "dependable partner," Koroma looked forward to China's continued support as the country continues to implement the second phase of its recovery program.

He said the country will explore all the opportunities offered by FOCAC in fully implementing the country's socio-economic development plan.

After being greeted by a military honor guard, the ambassador was presented to the president by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Samura Kamara.

The ceremony was witnessed by Vice President Victor Foh and other government functionaries. Endi