A landmark example highlighted was the major investment by China Kingho Mining Company. Dabo described it as "one of the largest single Chinese investments in Sierra Leone, and indeed, in West Africa," noting that its operations have been "a critical source of employment, infrastructure development and revenue for our nation".

The collaboration, fostered under the Belt and Road Initiative, continues to expand into technology, fair investment and sustainable development, providing a stable market that supports production continuity.

"We currently have 35 large-scale mining investments in the country, of which 22 are Chinese companies," Dabo stressed that these investments "are not merely financial transactions, they are the bedrock upon which we are building a more robust and collaborative relationship".

The China Mining Conference and Exhibition is a premier global event for the mining industry, facilitating dialogue and cooperation on mineral exploration, investment and sustainable development.

Wu Meng and Chen Yijun in Tianjin contributed to this story.