By Linus Flomo
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified the nation’s diplomatic position with Russia following an article published in the Women Voices Newspaper on November 11, 2024, under the headline, “Liberia Strengthens Ties with Russia.”
The Ministry’s statement issued yesterday, emphasized that there has been no formal move by the Liberian Government to deepen relations with Russia, as suggested in the article.
According to the Ministry, Liberia and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations since 1972.
However, during Liberia’s civil crisis, Russia closed its embassy in Monrovia, and there have been no recent developments in the bilateral relationship or plans for change on Liberia’s part.
The Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Ibrahim Nyei, recently attended the Russia-Africa Summit, held as part of an African bloc alongside representatives from 50 other African countries.
The summit provided a platform for dialogue on global political and economic issues between African nations and Russia, with leadership from the African Union Chairperson and regional economic bloc heads, including the President of the ECOWAS Commission.
The Ministry clarified that the attendance of Liberia’s delegation at this summit does not signify a shift in diplomatic ties between Russia and Liberia.
“There has been no communication from the Russian Federation regarding plans to reopen its embassy or to enhance diplomatic relations with Liberia,” the statement read.
The Ministry did acknowledge comments made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who, during the summit, listed Liberia among potential countries for reopening Russian embassies.
However, the Foreign Ministry noted that this gesture was not accompanied by any formal diplomatic request to the Liberian Government.
As Liberia seeks a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council to represent Africa, the Ministry emphasized Liberia’s commitment to peace and development on the continent.
Liberia’s participation in the summit was based on its solidarity with African countries, not on any specific alignment with Russian foreign policy.
The Liberian delegation reiterated Liberia’s openness to diplomatic exchange but highlighted the importance of non-interference in West African affairs, cautioning against the risks of proxy wars in the ECOWAS region.
President Joseph Boakai, has been a vocal advocate for strengthening ECOWAS cohesion, according to the Ministry.
The delegation underscored Liberia’s dedication to ensuring that regional disputes are not exacerbated by external influences.
“Our region’s conflicts have grown increasingly complex and challenging to resolve, often due to external interests,” the delegation stated.
The Ministry reaffirmed that Liberia’s participation in the Russia-Africa Summit should be viewed through the lens of regional cooperation and Liberia’s quest for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council.
It is Liberia’s goal to collaborate closely with other African nations in advancing peace and security across the continent.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that any significant shifts in foreign policy regarding Russia or any other nation would be directed by President Boakai. For the time being, Liberia’s relations with Russia remain unchanged.
The Ministry invited further questions from the public, international partners, and the media for clarification on Liberia’s international relations and foreign policy stance.
