With its strong economy, China is willing to share opportunities with Sierra Leone for common development, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Tuesday.

Qin made the remarks when meeting with David Francis, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Sierra Leone, in Beijing.

China and Sierra Leone have always upheld mutual support and sincere cooperation since diplomatic relations between the two countries were established, Qin noted. 

Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the proposal of the principles of China's Africa policy – sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and pursuing the greater good and shared interests – Qin said the principles have shaped China-Sierra Leone relations in the past and will also open up a bright future for bilateral relations.

Qin called on both sides to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, enhance practical cooperation and maintain close coordination in international and regional affairs.

For his part, Francis said Sierra Leone-China relations are strong and both sides share extensive common interests.

The Sierra Leonean side attaches great importance to developing relations with China and firmly adheres to the one-China principle.

He called for strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, agriculture and infrastructure with China to benefit the two peoples of the two countries.

Sierra Leone highly appreciates China's important role in safeguarding world peace and stability, and supports the important initiatives put forward by China, pledging to work with China to jointly advance democracy in international relations and world multi-polarization.