A high-level delegation from the Export-Import Bank of China met with Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance, Ahmed Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, on Friday as part of a five-day working visit aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and assessing ongoing development projects in the country.
The delegation, comprising Mr. Wang Hongjie and Mr. Li Wantong — both Country Officers from the Sovereign Business Department of the Exim Bank of China — held discussions with senior officials at the Ministry of Finance on a range of issues, including Sierra Leone’s fiscal and monetary policies, debt situation, and macroeconomic performance.
According to Wang Hongjie, the mission seeks to evaluate the country’s financing needs, explore potential areas for future cooperation, and monitor progress on projects currently funded by the Bank.
Minister Bangura welcomed the team and described the Exim Bank of China as a key development partner with an expanding footprint in Sierra Leone’s digital and infrastructure sectors. He cited a new Joint Venture agreement between the Government and a Chinese firm to invest in mining and associated infrastructure as part of efforts to boost mineral value addition and economic growth.
The parties also explored financing models and investment strategies, particularly in relation to government revenue from the mining sector and opportunities in energy, transportation, and other critical infrastructure.
The Exim Bank delegation is expected to meet with other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) involved in implementing China-funded projects during their visit.
