Freetown: The Ministry of Social Welfare today received His Excellency Ambassador Zhao Yong of the People's Republic of China on a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation in the area of social welfare and community development. According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the visit formed part of ongoing diplomatic engagements to promote mutual understanding, expand partnership opportunities, and support shared efforts to address key social challenges affecting vulnerable groups in Sierra Leone. Ambassador Zhao was warmly welcomed by the Minister of Social Welfare, Hon. Melrose Karminty, who, on behalf of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, expressed appreciation for the visit and commended the longstanding relationship between Sierra Leone and China. The meeting was held in a spirit of friendship and cooperation, reflecting the strong ties that continue to exist between the two countries. Discussions during the meeting centered o n several key areas within the social welfare sector. The Minister provided a brief update on the Ministry's four directorates, highlighting their roles and responsibilities in delivering essential services to the people of Sierra Leone. Key issues discussed included child welfare and protection, programmes supporting older persons and persons with disabilities, mental health interventions, the establishment of rehabilitation centres, and the provision of psychosocial support for individuals affected by drug abuse. The meeting also addressed poverty alleviation strategies, the Ministry's recent observance of the International Day of Families, and plans for a Religious Policy intended to regulate formal religious activities in the country. Hon. Karminty further noted the Ministry's resource constraints despite its broad national mandate and emphasized the need for strengthened institutional and technical support, including skills training for social workers. Particular attention was given to the newly enacte d Professional Social Work Regulatory Act, which is expected to strengthen professional standards and advance the development of social work practice in Sierra Leone. In his remarks, Ambassador Zhao praised the innovative leadership of the Ministry and acknowledged the important work being carried out under the direction of Hon. Melrose Karminty. He noted that China remains committed to supporting Sierra Leone's development priorities and highlighted areas where both countries could enhance collaboration for the benefit of local communities. Ambassador Zhao also referenced the growth in exports from Sierra Leone to China, stating that the increase reflects expanding economic engagement and presents significant opportunities for broader investment and cooperation. As part of the discussions, the Ambassador proposed several areas for possible partnership, including exchange programmes for social workers and professionals, scholarship opportunities, joint training initiatives, and support for projects designe d to improve community welfare. He also reaffirmed China's continued support in the health sector, including the rehabilitation of Jui Hospital, and expressed readiness to further strengthen relations with both the Ministry and the nation as a whole. At the conclusion of the meeting, both Ambassador Zhao Yong and Hon. Melrose Karminty reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening the enduring relationship between China and Sierra Leone, particularly in the advancement of social welfare, social protection, and human development.