Dr. Teeko T. Yorlay, Sr., President Boakai’s nominee for Liberia’s Ambassador to France, has laid out an ambitious agenda centered on economic diplomacy and fostering development-oriented partnerships.
Addressing the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs during his confirmation hearing recently, Dr. Yorlay committed to advancing Liberia’s interests on the global stage through targeted collaborations and proactive representation.
In his presentation, Dr. Yorlay emphasized the transformative potential of strong bilateral relations with France and its European partners. He highlighted the need to prioritize development goals, particularly in education, infrastructure, and trade.
“Our partnership with France is an untapped reservoir of opportunities,” he stated. “As ambassador, my goal will be to translate these opportunities into tangible benefits for our country.”
Dr. Yorlay underscored economic diplomacy as the cornerstone of his strategy, describing it as a tool to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs) and boost local industries. He cited France’s role as a major global economy and its potential as a key partner for Liberia in trade, agriculture, and industrial development.
According to him, as someone with the United Nations experience and awareness of geopolitics in which France plays a key role in global affairs, especially within the European Union (EU), North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the United Nations (UN), he is cognizant of the importance of improved relations with France that was the second European nation after the United Kingdom (UK) to have officially recognized our sovereignty in 1852.
“I intend to position Liberia as an attractive destination for French investors,” Yorlay explained. “By engaging key stakeholders in France’s private sector, we can open new markets for Liberian products, especially in agriculture, which remains the backbone of our economy.”
Additionally, the nominee said, he is fully aware that France along with the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK) is part of an informal bloc of industrialized democracies called the Group of Seven (G7) that meets, discusses and decides on issues of global economic governance, international security, and, most recently, artificial intelligence (AI).
He also pointed to the importance of ensuring that these economic gains benefit ordinary Liberians. “It’s not just about bringing investments,” he stressed, “but ensuring that those investments create jobs, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national development.”
Dr. Yorlay spoke extensively about leveraging Liberia’s membership in global bodies such as UNESCO, headquartered in Paris. He vowed to enhance Liberia’s participation in education, culture, and scientific initiatives promoted by UNESCO, noting that these programs align with Liberia’s national priorities.
He further said that under his leadership and with Liberia on the Executive Board as the fifty-eighth (58th) member, he will ensure that the Permanent Delegation of Liberia to UNESCO remains a consequential member of the organization and multilaterally engages to ensure that our country continues to accrue the necessary dividends through the Ministry of Education; the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Ministry of Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism; and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
“UNESCO offers immense opportunities in education and cultural preservation,” he said. “As a nation rich in culture and history, we must make our voice heard and access the support needed to improve our education system and preserve our heritage.”
Yorlay also acknowledged the existing cooperation between Liberia and France in various sectors, including the training of security forces and French language promotion. He pledged to strengthen these collaborations, particularly in addressing pressing challenges like climate change and sustainable development.
The nominee highlighted his commitment to inclusive development, with a particular focus on youth empowerment and gender equity. Drawing from his personal experience as a youth advocate, Dr. Yorlay stressed the importance of giving young Liberians access to education, training, and opportunities abroad.
“Investing in our youth is investing in our future,” he declared. “Through scholarships and exchange programs, we can equip the next generation of Liberians with the skills needed to drive our country forward.”
In addition, he expressed his intention to promote women’s participation in economic and diplomatic initiatives. “Gender equality is not just a moral imperative; it is a developmental necessity,” he said. “Women must be given equal opportunities to contribute to Liberia’s growth.”
Addressing Liberia’s vulnerability to climate change, Dr. Yorlay committed to advocating for increased international support to address environmental challenges. He noted that France, as a leader in global climate initiatives, can play a significant role in supporting Liberia’s environmental sustainability efforts.
“Climate change is a shared challenge that requires shared solutions,” Yorlay asserted. “We will work closely with France to secure resources and expertise to protect our forests, preserve biodiversity, and promote renewable energy.”
Members of the Senate Committee commended Dr. Yorlay for his clear vision and readiness to serve as Liberia’s top diplomat in France. Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, described Yorlay as “a nominee with a wealth of experience and a strong sense of patriotism.”
Dr. Yorlay, who previously served as Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted his readiness to bring his extensive experience in governance and policy implementation to bear in his new role. “I am fully prepared to serve Liberia with diligence and integrity,” he told the Senate. “If confirmed, I will dedicate myself to achieving measurable results for the Liberian people.”
Reflecting on his nomination, Dr. Yorlay expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Joseph N. Boakai. He acknowledged the significant responsibilities of an ambassador and reiterated his commitment to putting Liberia’s interests above all else.
“This nomination is not just an honor; it is a call to serve,” Yorlay remarked. “I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that Liberia’s voice is heard, our partnerships are strengthened, and our people reap the benefits of these efforts.”
As the Senate prepares to deliberate on Dr. Yorlay’s confirmation, expectations are high that he will bring a results-oriented approach to Liberia’s diplomatic mission in France. His focus on economic diplomacy, education, and climate action reflects a comprehensive strategy to maximize Liberia’s potential on the global stage.
“Our success will not be measured by words but by actions and outcomes,” Yorlay concluded. “Together, we can build a Liberia that is respected internationally and thriving domestically.”
If confirmed, Dr. Yorlay is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing Liberia’s development agenda through strategic partnerships and proactive engagement in France, plus Spain, Portugal, Greece, Switzerland, Cyprus, Monaco, UNESCO as well as French and other international organizations associated with them whose involvement in our country would bequeath desirous benefits to our country.
