Japan and Liberia Formalize Partnership with Freeway Extension Agreement

On March 12, 2025, Japan and Liberia signed an exchange of notes to extend the Japan Freeway-Road corridor, enhancing connectivity between the Freeport of Monrovia and Gabriel Tucker Bridge. This development underscores the strengthening diplomatic relations and ongoing collaboration aimed at economic growth and infrastructure improvement in Liberia.

On March 12, 2025, the Governments of Japan and Liberia formalized an exchange of notes to extend the Japan Freeway-Road corridor, enhancing connectivity between the Freeport of Monrovia and Gabriel Tucker Bridge. This signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia, marking a significant step in diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Liberia’s Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Dr. Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei, expressed that the ceremony is a testament to the strengthening relations between Liberia and Japan. He remarked on the importance of continuing this momentum to build a robust partnership on various global issues. He also extended gratitude to Japan for its ongoing support and collaboration over the years, which has significantly contributed to Liberia’s economic recovery and infrastructure development since the civil war.

Deputy Minister Nyei highlighted Japan’s contributions to food assistance, which have facilitated various social and economic initiatives within Liberian communities. He also noted the impact of the Japan Freeway, a 13.2-kilometer urban road financed by Japan, on enhancing trade and the movement of people between urban and suburban areas, thus fostering economic growth.

The Deputy Minister detailed that the extension of the freeway would cover an additional 1.9 kilometers, linking the Freeport of Monrovia to the Gabriel Tucker Bridge, thereby furthering economic development. This project aligns with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which prioritizes crucial areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, and tourism, aimed at bolstering the private sector and job creation.

In his concluding remarks, Deputy Minister Nyei emphasized Liberia’s commitment to deepening engagements with Japan. He expressed gratitude for Japan’s support regarding Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term. Nyei assured Japan of Liberia’s dedication to maintaining a strong collaborative relationship in addressing international concerns, including peace promotion and environmental justice.

Japan’s Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Mr. Yoshimoto Hiroshi, underscored Japan’s pride in its long-standing history of support for Liberia’s infrastructure development. He noted that the upcoming extension of the Japan Freeway is a key component of Japan’s broader infrastructure agenda in Africa, aimed at nurturing sustainable growth and resilience in local communities. The Ambassador extended thanks to the involved stakeholders for their efforts to advance this project.

The signing ceremony witnessed the organization of various dignitaries, including officials from both governments and representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), reflecting the collaborative spirit and shared objectives in enhancing Liberia’s infrastructure and sustainable development.

The recent exchange of notes between Japan and Liberia marks a pivotal moment in strengthening their bilateral relations, with the extension of the Japan Freeway set to facilitate economic growth and connectivity. This commitment aligns with Liberia’s aim of enhancing its infrastructure while adhering to its ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. Both nations expressed mutual appreciation for their longstanding partnership and shared goals, particularly in international cooperation and infrastructure development.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com