Exclusive with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio

Since May 1, 2026, China has rolled out zero-tariff treatment for all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic ties. This move highlights joint efforts to build an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era. What defines a truly dependable international partnership? How can infrastructure and cooperation drive food security and long-term growth? In this episode of Leaders Talk, CMG's Xu Dezhi sits down with Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio for an in-depth and wide-ranging conversation. They explore the long-standing relationship between China and Sierra Leone, discuss the impact of zero-tariff policies and expanded market access, and examine how infrastructure development supports agriculture and national resilience. The conversation also looks into multilateralism, Africa's role on the global stage, and collective efforts to address terrorism and food insecurity.

00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Sierra Leone-China Relations
01:47 - 55 Years of Diplomacy: Assessing Current Bilateral Ties
03:43 - Practical Cooperation: The Fishing Hub and Market Certification
06:00 - Food Security: Learning from China’s Agricultural Modernisation
09:18 - Trade and Economy: Impact of Zero-Tariff Treatment for Africa
11:13 - A Shared Future: Interpretation of President Xi’s Vision
12:51 - International Stance: Commitment to the One-China Policy
14:02 - Global Diplomacy: Sierra Leone’s Role in the UN Security Council
16:16 - UN Reform: Amplifying the African Voice on the Global Stage
17:11 - Tackling the Vicious Cycle of Conflict and Hunger
19:07 - Regional Security: Counter-terrorism Challenges in the Sahel
21:38 - African Solutions for African Problems vs. International Support
23:36 - Vision for the Future: Leading with the Spirit of the "Lion Mountains"

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