MONROVIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has called for stronger economic cooperation between Liberia and South Africa, urging both countries to move beyond longstanding diplomatic relations and pursue increased investment, technology transfer and institutional partnerships to support Liberia’s development.
The Liberian leader made the call Tuesday, when he received the letters of credence from South Africa’s newly accredited ambassador to Liberia, Nocawe Noncedo Mafu, during a formal ceremony at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia.
President Boakai emphasized that his administration is seeking to transform Liberia’s diplomatic relationships into practical economic opportunities capable of attracting investment, strengthening institutions and improving the livelihoods of citizens.
He identified investment, technology transfer, institutional capacity building and expanded economic opportunities as priority areas for cooperation under his administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
The president stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral engagement to ensure that the longstanding relationship between Liberia and South Africa produces meaningful development benefits for both countries.
Boakai noted that Liberia and South Africa have maintained cordial diplomatic relations since January 1997, with their partnership built on Pan-Africanism, African solidarity, mutual respect and a shared commitment to freedom and self-determination.
He said the relationship provides an important foundation for expanding cooperation, particularly as Liberia seeks international partnerships to advance its national development priorities.
The Liberian leader also reflected on Liberia’s historic involvement in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, recalling the country’s solidarity with South Africans during their fight for freedom, equality and democratic governance.
He maintained that Liberia takes pride in its contributions to the anti-apartheid struggle, describing the shared history as an important element of the relationship between the two nations.
For her part, Ambassador Mafu expressed appreciation to Liberia for its historic support during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
She specifically recalled Liberia’s decision to challenge apartheid policies at the International Court of Justice, describing the action as a significant demonstration of solidarity that continues to shape relations between the two countries.
The South African diplomat reaffirmed her government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and building on the historical ties that have connected the two nations for decades.
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