Chinese Minister Pledges Continued Co-operation

The visiting Chinese Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lu Gouzeng, has pledged a further grant of 20 million Yuan to the government of Sierra Leone towards the realisation of more Chinese-funded projects in Sierra Leone.

Speaking through an interpreter at the Lodge this morning, Mr. Lu remarked that China had enjoyed a thirty-year long bilateral relation with Sierra Leone, characterised by fruitful cooperation in various fields. While acknowledging President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah's pivotal role in the People's Republic of China's recent resumption of diplomatic relations with neighbouring Liberia, Mr Lu added that once diplomatic ties with Liberia were restored, China would now provide support towards the reconstruction of Liberia and help promote peace in the sub-region. As a Permanent Member of the Security Council the minister reiterated China's concern for a more durable and sustainable peace in the Mano River Union countries and intimated that his country would send observers to monitor and ensure peace and stability in the sub-region.

He lauded the Sierra Leone government's consistent support for the one-China policy and equally praised the Head of State for what he referred to as his "vision" in getting the Liberian leadership to do likewise. "Rest assured that the Chinese government and people will continue to stand beside you," the minister said, noting that China was aware that the Head of State gives top priority to the national food security drive and the development of the energy sector.

Responding, President Kabbah indicated that his role in Liberia of supporting renewing of diplomatic ties with China was essentially an expression of appreciation to the People's Republic of China for their unwavering support to the government and people of Sierra Leone during the decade-long war and co-operation in various development projects.

The Head of State said that he personally advised the Liberian leadership to seek good relations with China as a means of helping to foster peace, stability and development in the sub-region.

President Kabbah concluded by re-affirming his government's fervent desire of continuing excellent bilateral relations with China and pursuing the country's food security programme as well as develop the Bikongoh waterfalls in Eastern Sierra Leone into a viable hydro-electric project.

 

 

 

 

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