By Nicholas D. Nimley, Contributing Writer
China’s support for President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s “ARREST Agenda” is evidence of the deepening relationship between Liberia and the Asian economic powerhouse, which has a history of intensive diplomatic exchanges, including economic cooperation.
The support does not mean just political support; it embodies a commitment to promoting a strong, transparent, and prosperous Liberia through mutually beneficial partnerships with win-win cooperation.
In his keynote speech at the China-Liberia Friendship School graduation ceremony on Saturday, July 20, Chinese Ambassador to Liberia YIN Chengwu said China-Liberia relations have improved and entered a new stage under the “great” leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Liberian President Joseph Nyumah Boakai.
Ambassador YIN told over 26 students graduating from kindergarten and primary category of the school that despite the distance of thousands of miles, China regards Liberia as a good friend, brother, and partner, and cherishes the friendship, including supporting the development of education for Liberian youth.
The Chinese Ambassador recalled that in recent years China has built the Fendall Campus of the University of Liberia, the Monrovia Vocational Training Center, and the Tobyville Elementary School in Maryland County.
Other projects funded by China include the Capitol Building Annex, the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex, and the JFD Hospital in Tapita, Nimba County.
Ambassador YIN also revealed that China provides Liberians with opportunities such as scholarships and short-term internships every year.
However, one of the cornerstones of China-Liberia relations is economic cooperation. China is one of Liberia’s most important trading partners and has invested heavily in mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
The Chinese envoy encouraged students of the China-Liberia Friendship School to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in China by applying for scholarships to study in China and then return to serve in Liberia.
He also praised the remarkable growth of the 26 graduates, saying they have acquired knowledge and developed thinking, communication, and team spirit.
He advised the graduates that graduation is not an end but a new beginning, as the future is bright and full of challenges.
“The future is yours. No matter what the future holds, I hope you will always be curious about the unknown, maintain good study habits, and be grateful for life. I hope you will also be resilient, and courageous, cherish friendships, and pursue your dreams”, Ambassador YIN stressed.
