By Bill W. Cooper
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to adhering to the ‘One-China Policy’, emphasizing that the government of George M. Weah will continue to work closely with the People’s Republic of China.
Acting Foreign Minister for Legal Affairs, Deweh Gray, further stated that the ‘One-One-China Policy’ does not only consolidate the political basis of both countries’ bilateral relation, but demonstrates that Liberians are supportive of their cooperation.
She maintained, “So, it is our hope that the bounds of friendship so happily shared between our two countries will be the glue that will continue to bind our two nations together, for the mutual benefit of both countries and people.”
Cllr. Gray spoke Friday, September 22, 2023, during an occasion marking the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China held in Liberia.
The One-China policy is a diplomatic acknowledgement of China’s position that there is only one Chinese government, and as such, under the policy.
According to her, as Liberia celebrates another milestone in China’s history, it does so with deep gratitude for the high level of technical and economic assistance the Chinese Government has provided over the years towards Liberia’s development agenda.
She asserted, “Mr. Charge d’affaires, your support contributed immensely to the peace and stability we enjoy today. It is our distinguished honor and pleasure, on behalf of President George M. Weah, to extend profound congratulations and best wishes on behalf of the government and the people of Liberia, to H.E. President Xi Jinping, the government, and the gallant People’s Republic of China.”
Meanwhile, Gray further reiterated Liberia’s commitment to continue the excellent relationship between the two countries and people, expressing her sincere thanks to all the Chinese nationals for their respective contributions to the development of their beloved country.
She at the same time acknowledged the Chinese contribution towards Liberia’s infrastructures, including the Ministerial Complex, which is hosting a number of ministries and agencies and has now relieved the government of the burden of rent payments.
Earlier, the Charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Liberia, Fan Erwei, thanked all Chinese compatriots, including the government of Liberia, and all who have contributed to the promotion of the China-Liberia friendship!
He stressed that although China and Africa, including Liberia, are distant, the great friendship between the Chinese and African peoples has a long history, acknowledging that China-Liberia relations have made great strides under the joint leadership of the presidents of the two countries and the support and promotion of friendly people from all walks of life.
This, the Chinese Chargé d’Affaires to Liberia noted, “This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi’s putting forth the principle of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith, and of pursuing the greater good and shared interests for China’s relations with Africa.”
He added that the cooperation between the two countries has also achieved fruitful results in the areas of economy and trade, medical and health care, infrastructure construction, and human resource development, which have benefited the peoples of the two countries.
“We are ready to join hands with our Liberian brothers to further deepen cooperation and carry out more cooperative projects to improve people’s livelihood and well-being, so as to jointly realize the beautiful dream of the people of the two countries in pursuit of a happy life,” he said.
