Africa-Press – Liberia. At a reception celebrating the long-standing relationship between China and Liberia, Chinese Ambassador YIN Chengwu highlighted the significant progress and achievements made since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1977, with a renewed commitment to future cooperation.
The event, themed “Keeping in Mind the Original Aspiration of China-Liberia Relations to Move Forward Together,” underscored the enduring friendship and collaborative efforts between the two nations.
“Since the resumption of diplomatic relations in 2003, China-Liberia relations have flourished on the basis of the one-China principle,” said Ambassador YIN. “Although our journey has faced challenges, our friendship has never wavered. I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the growth of our bilateral relations.”
Reflecting on the numerous high-level exchanges over the past decades, Ambassador YIN mentioned a particularly noteworthy visit in 2009. “The visit of then-Liberian Vice President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to China, invited by then-Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping, marked a significant milestone. It was one of the first engagements between President Xi and an African leader, symbolizing our deep-rooted connection,” he said.
“China has been a steadfast supporter of peace in Liberia,” said Ambassador YIN. “From 2003 to 2017, China sent 19 successive peacekeeping units, comprising over 10,000 officers and soldiers, contributing significantly to UNMIL and the peace in Liberia.”
In the realm of agriculture, China has implemented numerous technical assistance projects. “The Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centre in Bong County trained 2,500 local trainees and successfully produced hybrid rice seeds, promoting food security and ending Liberia’s dependence on imports,” Ambassador YIN highlighted.
China’s contribution to Liberia’s infrastructure has been transformative. “The Ministry of Health Office Building, the University of Liberia Fendall Campus, and the Roberts International Airport Terminal are just a few landmarks built with Chinese assistance, driving economic and social development,” noted Ambassador YIN.
“Since 1984, China has sent 16 medical teams to Liberia, providing vital healthcare services and training,” Ambassador YIN stated. “In recent years, we’ve strengthened this partnership with new protocols and significant donations to the JFK Hospital.”
During the Ebola and COVID-19 crises, China was quick to provide emergency assistance. “We built treatment centers, sent medical teams, and donated crucial supplies, underscoring our commitment to Liberia’s health and safety,” said Ambassador YIN.
China has been a strong advocate for educational development in Liberia. “Since 1986, we’ve offered around 1,000 scholarships to Liberian students, fostering academic growth and cultural exchange,” Ambassador YIN shared.
“China is now Liberia’s major trading partner,” Ambassador YIN emphasized. “In 2023, bilateral trade reached US$320 million, with Chinese investments totaling US$13 million. Our economic collaboration continues to thrive, benefiting both nations.”
Ambassador YIN also reflected on the principles that underpin China-Liberia relations. “We respect and support each other in safeguarding core interests. Liberia’s adherence to the one-China principle and our mutual support in international forums are testaments to our strong diplomatic ties,” he said.
Looking forward, the Chinese Ambassador expressed optimism for the future. “Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Boakai, our relations are entering a new stage. We aim to enhance engagement, promote practical cooperation, and jointly address global challenges,” he concluded.
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