President Boakai’s governing Unity Party says the United States is not bothered by Liberia-China ties despite China being America’s number one rival on the global stage.
By Lincoln G. Peters
Monrovia, Liberia, October 2, 2024—The national chairman of the governing Unity Party, Rev. Luther Tarpeh, says Liberia’s diplomatic relations with China do not threaten those of the United States, China’s biggest rival.
Responding to concerns about potential diplomatic fallout with America because of Liberia’s relationship with China, Chairman Tarpeh says absolutely not, adding that the America-Liberia relationship is here to stay.
In an exclusive interview with The NEW DAWN at the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China here, Chairman Tarpeh described America’s diplomatic relations with Liberia as traditional.
According to him, since the UP government took power, it has reaffirmed the government and people of Liberia’s commitment to the One-China policy to accelerate its national developmental agenda.
“We know that our nation has a traditional upbringing from the United States of America. Also, America has been there with us. So, just so you know, our relationship with China poses no threat to America, as critics believe. There is no threat. As a sovereign country, we look at our development agenda and see ‘Friends’ who can help us improve and help our people’s living conditions. Therefore, I don’t feel America feels threatened by that. Our relationship with America remains intact.” Rev. Tarpeh notes.
He says the government respects and cherishes America’s long-standing traditional relationship, which is why we checkmated the 177th Independence Day Orator when she publicly criticized America’s relationship with Liberia without providing any proof.
Chairman Tarpeh maintains that China has been instrumental in its diplomatic work with Liberia, adding that he is not surprised by the numerous development projects the Chinese government has announced for Liberia.
He notes that since the Liberian Civil War, the UP-led government has worked with absolute commitment to the One-China Policy, saying that it is very pleasant that they are willing to support the government’s development agenda. Editing by Jonathan Browne
