The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, His Excellency Zhao Yong, on Thursday 12th March 2026 paid a courtesy visit to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr William Fayia Sellu, at Police Headquarters in Freetown.
During the visit, Ambassador Zhao expressed admiration for the prevailing safety, security and economic progress in Sierra Leone. He noted that he was impressed by the rapid improvements in the country’s security landscape and economic development, which he said have created a conducive environment for citizens and businesses to operate freely.
The Ambassador further stated that Sierra Leone remains comparatively safer than many other countries and commended the government for the remarkable social and economic progress being achieved under the leadership of the President – Brigadier (Rtd) Julius Maada Bio. According to him, these developments have paved the way for significant national growth and improved living standards for the people.
Ambassador Zhao also highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between China and Sierra Leone, emphasising the strong trade and investment ties between the two nations. He pointed to several key Chinese-supported projects in the country, including the construction of the fish harbour at Black Johnson, the rehabilitation of the National Stadium, the ongoing upgrade of the China–Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital at Jui, and the Smart City project.
He further noted that one of the mandates of the Chinese Embassy is to continually advise Chinese nationals in Sierra Leone to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and respectful of the country’s laws, culture and religious values.
The Ambassador concluded by assuring the Inspector General of Police of the Embassy’s continued support and cooperation with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP).
In his response, IGP William Fayia Sellu thanked the Ambassador for the visit and reaffirmed the long-standing diplomatic and developmental relationship between China and Sierra Leone. He cited the Police Headquarters on George Street in Freetown—originally constructed with Chinese support and currently undergoing refurbishment—as a symbol of that enduring partnership.
The IGP also acknowledged the capacity-building initiatives and logistical support previously extended to the Sierra Leone Police by the Chinese government through the Ambassador’s predecessor.
He further informed the Ambassador that the SLP has established a special desk at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to serve as a liaison office between Chinese investors and the Chinese Embassy.
IGP Sellu maintained that Sierra Leone continues to enjoy relative peace and stability, noting that the country has been ranked among the most peaceful nations in West Africa and Africa according to the Global Peace Index.
He assured Ambassador Zhao of the Sierra Leone Police’s continued cooperation and support whenever needed.
SLP Media Team
