President Joseph Boakai expresses Liberia’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Japan in the areas of science, technology, agriculture and investment promotion, as he holds bilateral talks with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Tokyo, Japan.
Tokyo, Japan; August 21, 2025 – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reflected on Japan’s critical assistance to Liberia during the deadly Ebola and COVID-19 crises, as well as recent contributions such as extension of Japan Freeway, construction of the Somalia drive road project and emergency food aid that he says continue to support Liberia’s Socio-Economic Stability.
According to the executive mansion in Monrovia, President Boakai spoke on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, when he met with the Japanese Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, during bilateral talks.
He emphasized Liberia’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Japan in the areas of science, technology, agriculture, and investment promotion, using the occasion to welcome additional Japanese investments in strategic development sectors.
Regional Matters
Mr. Boakai further highlighted security challenges facing West Africa, including piracy, organized crime, small arms proliferation, and unconstitutional changes of government. He urged greater international partnership to address these threats through joint strategies that ensure peace, stability, and sustainable development across the region.
At the same time, he extended appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their continued support to Liberia’s development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, food security, health, and capacity-building.
In response, Prime Minister Shigeru warmly congratulated Liberia on its election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to working closely with Liberia to advance peace, stability, and development.
He praised Liberia’s active participation in the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka, noting with appreciation the country’s efforts to showcase its rich cultural heritage, traditions, and values to the global community. He highlighted that Liberia’s presence at the Expo represents an important platform for strengthening international partnerships and attracting investment.
Prime Minister Shigeru further expressed keen interest in Liberia’s tourism sector, particularly the protection and promotion of its unique biodiversity, including the endangered pygmy hippopotamus, which he described as a valuable symbol of Liberia’s natural heritage. He assured that Japan stands ready to cooperate with Liberia in exploring sustainable tourism and environmental conservation initiatives.
On maritime cooperation
The Japanese Prime Minister highlighted the long-standing relationship between Japan and the Liberian Ship Registry. He emphasized the registry’s important role in global shipping and expressed confidence that this partnership could be expanded for greater mutual benefit.
He assured President Boakai that Japan would follow his leadership in supporting Liberia’s development priorities, particularly under the ARREST Agenda. He also noted that Liberia’s focus on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism aligns well with Japan’s own priorities for cooperation in Africa, and he looks forward to deepening engagement with Liberia in these areas.
Both leaders concluded the meeting with a mutual pledge to strengthen the Liberia–Japan partnership through expanded cooperation in development, trade, investment, tourism, and international security.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that have existed between Liberia and Japan for more than six decades. Press Release
