Liberia’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Amara Soko Sackor, has emphasized the growing importance of economic diplomacy in driving national development, describing strategic international partnerships as a critical force behind Liberia’s infrastructure transformation.
Ambassador Sackor made the remarks during the dedication of the newly upgraded Gbarnga–Salayea Highway and the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Salayea–Konia and Zorzor–Yeala road projects, where he represented the Government of Liberia alongside senior officials from major international development financing institutions.
The ceremonies brought together representatives from the Saudi Fund for International Development (SFD), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID)—partners whose financial support has contributed significantly to Liberia’s infrastructure development agenda.
Delivering remarks at the dedication ceremony, Ambassador Sackor described the completion of the Gbarnga–Salayea Highway as more than the construction of a major road network, but rather the realization of a long-standing national dream achieved through persistence, diplomatic engagement, and strong international cooperation.
“This project represents more than infrastructure. It represents commitment, partnership, and the power of diplomacy when it is directed toward improving the lives of citizens,” Ambassador Sackor said.
The Ambassador reflected on his personal involvement in advocating for the project, noting that his efforts toward advancing the road initiative began as far back as 2013.
He said the completion of the highway demonstrates what can be achieved when Liberia builds strong relationships with international partners and uses diplomacy to attract development resources.
Ambassador Sackor also paid tribute to two engineers who passed away before witnessing the completion of the highway, recognizing their dedication and contribution to the successful realization of the project.
He noted that their efforts would remain permanently connected to the history of the road project and Liberia’s broader infrastructure development journey.
The Liberian diplomat extended appreciation to the Infrastructure Implementation Unit (IIU) of the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, and Public Works Minister Roland Lafayette Giddings for their leadership and cooperation throughout the implementation process.
He also acknowledged Minister Beysolow for his continued support and commitment toward ensuring the project reached completion.
Ambassador Sackor expressed Liberia’s profound gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its development finance institutions for their confidence in the country and their willingness to support projects that improve connectivity, promote trade, and strengthen economic growth.
He specifically recognized the contributions of the Saudi Fund for International Development, BADEA, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development, describing their support as a reflection of strong bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
The Ambassador also praised Engineer Maimuna Jalloh and Engineer Ashraf A. Hassan for their technical leadership, commitment, and dedication from the early stages of the project through its successful completion.
While celebrating the achievements made in road infrastructure, Ambassador Sackor called on Liberia’s development partners to expand investments beyond transportation into other strategic sectors, including energy, agriculture, and education.
He stressed that sustainable national development requires a broader approach that strengthens economic diversification, creates employment opportunities, improves productivity, and enhances the quality of life for Liberians.
According to Ambassador Sackor, investments in these sectors will be essential to ensuring that infrastructure development translates into long-term economic benefits for citizens.
The event highlighted the impact of Liberia’s Economic Diplomacy agenda, which seeks to use international partnerships and diplomatic engagement to attract investment, mobilize resources, and advance national development priorities.
