The President highlighted the historical connection between Liberia and Ethiopia, emphasizing their shared roles as pioneers of African independence and advocates for Pan-Africanism.
Margibi County-President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on his 80th birthday welcomed Ethiopian Airlines as Africa’s largest carrier resumes flights to Liberia after a pause of more than 40 years.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972)-[email protected]
The inaugural flight landed in Monrovia on Saturday November 30, 2024, with more than 200 passengers on flight.
It was an eye-catching event, celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by Liberia’s President and several other senior government officials, including the delegation from Ethiopian Airlines.
The move to resume flights to Liberia signifies the airline’s dedication to fostering stronger economic, cultural, and social ties across the continent.
Speaking at the Farmington Hotel at the Roberts International Airport, President Boakai stressed that the resumption of Ethiopian Airlines flights to Liberia is an achievement that strengthened ties between Liberia and Ethiopia, adding that it is a major boost to the aviation and tourism sectors of Liberia.
According to President Boakai, the return of Ethiopian Airlines signifies Liberia’s growing economic potential. The move, according to the Liberian leader, is a reaffirmation of the long partnership between the two nations.
“Ethiopian Airlines’ return to Liberia signifies much more than the reopening of air routes; it is a powerful symbol of our long-standing friendship, mutual respect, and shared African heritage,” President Boakai said.
The President highlighted the historical connection between Liberia and Ethiopia, emphasizing their shared roles as pioneers of African independence and advocates for Pan-Africanism.
He said: “I want to commend Ethiopian Airlines for its resilience and leadership in connecting the African continent to the world, Ethiopian Airlines is a source of pride for all of Africa.”
The recommencement of direct flights between Monrovia and Addis Ababa is expected to open new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cooperation in areas such as education and culture, he said.
The President noted that this development will serve as a bridge for closer economic and diplomatic ties, foster investment, and create job opportunities, particularly in the aviation and tourism sectors.
“This historic flight marks a new era of cooperation that reaffirms our commitment to African solidarity and to the broader vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated continent,” the President asserted.
The President concluded by emphasizing that the resumption of Ethiopian Airlines’ flights is not just a bilateral achievement but a reflection of the broader Pan-African vision of unity and progress.
Also speaking at the event, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Lemma Vadecha, expressed optimism about the new destination, emphasizing its potential to bolster economic integration and promote tourism.
“On this day we are not only celebrating your birthday Mr. President but a new partnership between our two countries,” Mr. Vadecha expressed.
Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Commercial Officer added: “Ethiopian Airlines has a long-standing history with Monrovia having begun its first-class service to this city in November 1966.”
According to Mr. Vadecha, his entity is pleased to resume flights to Monrovia, something he says reinforces the dedication to connecting Africa and promoting intra-African trade.
This, he says, is in line with the vision of providing the best travel experience. The presence of Ethiopian Airlines in Liberia will enhance opportunities for business and tourism, driving mutual growth, Vadecha said.
The airlines will operate three weekly flights to Monrovia, offering connectivity via its Addis Ababa hub.
The airline’s return to Liberia is expected to facilitate trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, contributing to the socio-economic development of both nations.
The resumption of flights is seen as a strategic move to strengthen ties between Ethiopia and Liberia while contributing to the broader vision of African unity and collaboration.
