His Excellency Abu Bakarr Karim, Ambassador of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the People’s Republic of China, took part in a high-level panel discussion on Monday, 19th January 2026, at the Seminar on Upholding Multilateralism and Promoting Global Governance. The event, hosted by the Research Center on Building a Community with a Shared Future for Humanity and organized by the China National Association for International Studies, the Chinese Society of International Law, and The Association of Diplomatic History of the People’s Republic of China, gathered diplomats, policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders to explore ways of reinvigorating multilateralism and fostering innovative responses to global challenges.
During a roundtable focused on innovative approaches to multilateralism, global governance, and climate change, Ambassador Karim highlighted Africa’s acute vulnerability to climate impacts. He emphasized that these effects undermine food and water security, disrupt livelihoods, and accelerate the displacement of vulnerable populations. Given African nations’ heavy reliance on agriculture and natural resources, he stressed that addressing climate change is imperative. Ambassador Karim called for the adoption of a comprehensive climate strategy, including investment in resilient infrastructure and equitable climate finance.
Beyond climate, the Ambassador outlined other pressing challenges requiring urgent attention, such as access to quality healthcare, education, and economic opportunity, as well as escalating conflicts in fragile states that worsen displacement and humanitarian crises. He further underscored the importance of strong governance and institutional capacity to ensure effective policy implementation, alongside strengthening intra-Africa trade, investing in human capital, and creating green jobs.
In closing, Ambassador Karim emphasized the need to accelerate technological innovation and digital transformation across Africa. He noted that the continent’s challenges are complex and interconnected, requiring sustained cooperation and a firm commitment to long-term solutions.