Chinese Ambassador Highlights Economic Growth, Diplomacy at “Two Sessions” Symposium in Freetown
By: James Kamara-Manneh
H.E Zhao Yong, China’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone, has outlined Beijing’s economic priorities, development strategy, and foreign policy direction during a media symposium on China’s “Two Sessions” held at China House in Freetown.
The event, attended by government officials and local stakeholders, focused on outcomes from China’s annual parliamentary gatherings the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference which recently concluded in Beijing.
Addressing journalists, Ambassador Zhao described the meetings as a key platform for understanding China’s development trajectory amid global uncertainty.
He said China remains “the most stable engine for global economic growth,” noting that the country recorded an average annual growth rate of 5.4 percent over the past five years, contributing about 30 percent to global economic expansion.
According to Ambassador Zhao, China’s gross domestic product surpassed $20 trillion in 2025, supported by rapid technological advancement and industrial transformation. He cited progress in artificial intelligence, robotics, and quantum technology, adding that China holds about 60 percent of global AI patents.
He also highlighted social development indicators, including the creation of approximately 12 million urban jobs annually and an increase in life expectancy to over 79 years.
On policy direction, the ambassador said the newly adopted 15th Five-Year Plan will guide China’s modernization drive, targeting economic growth between 4.5 and 5 percent in 2026. He said the plan prioritizes boosting domestic consumption, upgrading industries, and expanding emerging sectors.
Zhao further emphasized China’s commitment to global trade, stating that the country will continue to expand market access and promote high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
On foreign policy, the ambassador said China is committed to peace and stability, referencing diplomatic efforts in conflict regions and reiterating Beijing’s position on promoting international fairness and justice under the leadership of Xi Jinping.
He also highlighted deepening China-Africa relations, noting that 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and African countries. He announced that China will implement zero-tariff access for all African imports starting May 1 and host nearly 600 people-to-people exchange events this year.
Turning to bilateral ties, Zhao said China and Sierra Leone continue to enjoy strong relations, as the two countries mark 55 years of diplomatic engagement and a decade of their Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
“China is willing to work with Sierra Leone to enhance political mutual trust, strengthen international coordination, and ensure that cooperation benefits both peoples,” he said.
The symposium forms part of ongoing efforts by the Chinese Embassy to deepen public understanding of China’s policies and strengthen engagement with Sierra Leonean stakeholders.
