Canadian Officials Visit Liberia to Explore Renewable Energy Investments

A Canadian delegation visited Liberia to explore investment opportunities in renewable energy. The discussions highlighted the longstanding partnership between Canada and Liberia, focusing on trade, technological innovation, and climate initiatives. Both parties expressed a commitment to fostering collaborations that could contribute to Liberia’s development and sustainability.

A delegation of three high-ranking Canadian government officials traveled to Liberia to assess investment opportunities in renewable energy and related sectors. Facilitated by the Office of Liberia Trade & Investment in Canada, the visit aimed to engage with Liberian authorities and stakeholders to explore collaborative prospects. The delegation consisted of Mr. Amadou Kane, Ms. Marie Belanger, and Mr. Euloge Camara, all holding key positions in Canadian development and diplomatic efforts in Africa.

The discussions covered a range of topics, including bilateral relations, trade, technological innovation, and private sector investment. Notably, the Canadian officials recognized the enduring relationship between Canada and Liberia, which has roots that trace back to 1971. At a key meeting, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs Sylvester Grigsby emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations.

Conversations also focused on human capital development, capacity building, and green energy initiatives. The Canadian officials highlighted existing financial support for Canadian companies in Africa, underscoring efforts in gender programs, infrastructure development, and climate adaptation. Plans are underway to enhance the capacity of private school teachers in Liberia through targeted technical support.

During the meeting, Mr. Amadou Kane mentioned that although Canada does not maintain a formal bilateral program with Liberia, it engages in multiple trade initiatives, investing millions of dollars in various projects. These initiatives are executed in collaboration with NGOs and local organizations, emphasizing the collaborative nature of Canada’s commitment.

Mr. Euloge Camara remarked on the urgent need to address climate change, noting that since 2021, Canada has actively contributed resources towards related programs. He confirmed financial assistance for Canadian companies in Liberia aimed at bolstering private sector growth and supporting gender programs, infrastructure, and climate initiatives. A significant technical support program was also announced to develop the skills of private school teachers in Liberia.

Minister Grigsby reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to environmental protection and renewable energy, recognizing these areas as vital to the country’s future. Both Canadian and Liberian representatives expressed their eagerness to enhance cooperation in improving Liberia’s energy sector and strengthening bilateral relations.

These discussions are aimed at generating impactful partnerships that may significantly influence Liberia’s development trajectory. Following the recent Liberia Investment Forum in Toronto, which attracted international interest, the Canadian officials plan to continue engaging with various government ministries to foster significant collaborations.

This visit signals a robust alignment with Canada’s commitment to global climate initiatives, reinforcing Canada’s engagement in Africa, specifically in Liberia. The Office of Liberia Trade & Investment in Canada, represented by Madam Jallahqueena Hawa Konneh, played a crucial role in coordinating this significant visit.

The visit of the Canadian government officials to Liberia represents a meaningful endeavor to explore investment opportunities primarily in renewable energy. By fostering discussions on bilateral relations and development initiatives, both nations aim to strengthen their longstanding relationship. Through collaborations in key sectors, such as climate action and human capital development, the partnership has the potential to drive sustainable growth in Liberia as well.

Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com