Credit: Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone on Thursday marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a screening of the documentary The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru at the Golden Beach Hotel, Lumley.
The event was attended by representatives of the Sierra Leone government, students, and members of civil society organizations. The film, directed by Fang Li and co-directed by Ming Fan and Lily Gong, recounts the 1942 sinking of the Japanese vessel Lisbon Maru, which was carrying more than 1,800 British prisoners of war. Over 800 died, while more than 300 were rescued by Chinese fishermen.
Chinese Ambassador Wang Qing said the commemoration underscored China’s sacrifices in the global fight against fascism, noting the country suffered more than 35 million military and civilian casualties. He said China’s resistance contributed significantly to the Allied victory.
Ambassador Wang also recalled Sierra Leone’s role in the war, highlighting that the country sent soldiers to fight alongside the Chinese Expeditionary Force in Myanmar. He described this as a foundation of the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
“The lessons of history remain relevant today,” Wang said, stressing the need for multilateral cooperation and efforts to safeguard global peace.
The embassy said the screening was part of its commitment to strengthening China-Sierra Leone relations and promoting peace and development.
