Liberia and China explore more areas for collaboration to benefit both countries and their peoples.
By Stephen G. Fellajuah (contributor)
Monrovia, Liberia, November 11, 2024, China has taken a significant step to enhance its relationship with Liberia through a seminar organized by the Embassy of China here.
The forum under the theme, “Deepen Cooperation, Work Together for Development,” underscores China’s intent to foster closer ties with Liberia, focusing on mutual development and collaboration.
This move highlights China’s growing interest in strengthening partnerships with African nations, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, trade, health, education, and economic development.
The seminar is a platform to explore ways to increase cooperation, leveraging both countries’ strengths for shared progress.
The one-day event, held over the weekend at Golden Gate Hotel in Paynesville, attracted diverse attendees, including former and current government officials, distinguished guests, friends of China, and other key stakeholders from across the country.
The gathering provided an opportunity for networking and dialogue on enhancing bilateral relations between China and Liberia. Participants engaged in discussions aimed at identifying practical ways to deepen cooperation and work together for sustainable development.
Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, Yin Chengwu, emphasized that the seminar represented an important step in fostering discussions on China-Liberia cooperation. He expressed gratitude for the presence of friends and stakeholders, noting that such engagements are crucial for strengthening ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
The Ambassador spoke about the importance of working together for mutual development and shared prosperity, reaffirming China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s growth through strategic partnerships.
Recently, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai held a meeting in China, where both leaders agreed to elevate the level of China-Liberia cooperation. This high-level engagement underscored their commitment to deepening ties across various sectors, including trade, infrastructure, and development.
The two Presidents also discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations further and explore new opportunities for collaboration that would benefit both nations. Their agreement marks a significant milestone in the growing partnership between China and Liberia.
This year, cooperation between China and Liberia has entered a new chapter, marked by a renewed focus on fostering development and strengthening bilateral ties. Both countries are committed to expanding their partnership across multiple areas, including infrastructure, trade, and technology.
This shift signals a more robust collaboration with a shared vision for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity. The recent agreements and discussions between their leadership are seen as a clear indication of the growing importance of relationships in coming years.
Chinese organizations are set to play a pivotal role in creating new market opportunities and providing development prospects for both China and Liberia. These organizations aim to drive economic growth, facilitate knowledge transfer, and foster sustainable development in Liberia through investments, trade, and collaborative projects. By leveraging China’s expertise in infrastructure and technology, the partnership is expected to generate mutual benefits, enhancing Liberia’s development while opening up further opportunities for Chinese businesses in the African market.
“China is also focused on promoting strategies of mutual benefits and cooperation,” Ambassador Chengwu said.
He emphasized that China’s approach to strengthening ties with Liberia is centered on creating win-win outcomes, ensuring that both countries benefit from their partnership.
The Ambassador outlined that China’s commitment is not just economic support but also fostering long-term, sustainable development that uplifts both nations through shared efforts and mutual respect.
He continued that China highly appreciates Liberia’s role in international and regional affairs and recognizes the country as an important partner on the global stage. He explained that China is eager to provide support to Liberia in key sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and resource development, among others.
Representing the Government of Liberia, Rev. Luther Tarpeh, Chairman of the running Unit Party, told the forum that the concept of development globally carries a profound message of collaboration. He emphasizes that addressing developmental challenges requires the concerted efforts of all stakeholders. Recognizing the evolving diplomatic landscape of the 21st century, Rev. Tarpeh notes that tackling global challenges effectively demands a collaborative approach.
He further asserts that promoting global peace and socio-economic progress will remain elusive unless nations work together intentionally. “China is the leading developmental partner across Africa, sharing its experiences with others,” Rev. Tarpeh states, underscoring China’s vital role in Africa’s growth and transformation.
He also called for a shift in Liberia’s development approach, moving away from an aid-dependent model toward more strategic collaboration with China, whose economic transformation has been globally recognized.
Rev. Tarpeh expresses optimism that the seminar would reaffirm the wisdom of the Chinese proverb: “It is better to teach a man how to fish than to give him a fish after every fishing expedition.”
In his statement at the program, Nehker E. Gaye, Representative of District #3, Nimba County, and Co-chair on Foreign Affairs in the House of Representatives, said the Government and people of Liberia view China as a reliable partner. He highlights China’s continued support in critical sectors such as infrastructure development, health, agriculture, education, and security.
“We will continue to uphold the One-China policy and see China as a strategic partner of Liberia,” Representative Gaye affirmed. Editing by Jonathan Browne
