By Laurina B Lormia
President Joseph Boakai has proposed the establishment of a Resident Embassy of Indonesia in Liberia, while inviting Indonesian enterprises to explore investment opportunities in the country.
Speaking to an assembly of African leaders and top Indonesian officials at the Indonesia-Africa Forum on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the Mulia Conference Center in Bali, President Boakai highlighted the longstanding relationship between Liberia and Indonesia; outlining his administration’s transformative development agenda aimed at achieving sustainable economic transformation.
According to him, this step would facilitate deeper connections and enhance bilateral cooperation, fostering not only friendship but also strategic partnerships that can unlock the potential for mutually beneficial collaborations.
He added that he envisions a dynamic reciprocal partnership between the two countries, where Indonesian enterprises can leverage Liberia’s vast resources and potential, while Liberia benefits from Indonesia’s expertise and innovation.
He emphasized that by working together, both countries can maximize the benefits of collaboration, contributing positively to both the regional and global economies.
President Boakai mentioned that, the two nations share a long history of friendship and cooperation that span over five decades.
“From the early participation of a Liberian delegation at the Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung in 1955 to the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1965, our countries have worked together to build bridges of understanding and solidarity,” he historicized.
He stressed that, this forum serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations and the potential for even greater collaboration in the future, adding that, this enduring partnership has been built on mutual commitment to peace, development, and prosperity, with both nations collaborating in areas such as trade, investment, education, and capacity building.
He used the occasion to introduce Liberia’s “ARREST Agenda,” an ambitious development plan aimed at fostering sustainable economic and human growth.
“The ARREST Agenda, which stands for Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism, outlines the key pillars of Liberia’s strategic priorities under his administration,” he added.
He underscored each pillar of the ARREST Agenda, stressing the importance of agricultural development, infrastructure expansion, and adherence to the rule of law, educational advancement, improved sanitation, and the promotion of tourism.
“Liberia is blessed with rich, fertile lands, and we believe in unlocking the agricultural potential not only as a means of food security but as a foundation for economic empowerment,” he noted.
“Our vision is encapsulated in the ARREST Agenda, which stands as a testament to our commitment to sustainable human and economic growth in Liberia, a nation where potential abounds, yet challenges persist,” President Boakai explained.
President Boakai, however, lamented that as they continue to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it is essential for countries to work together in a spirit of partnership and solidarity.
Liberia values its relationship with Indonesia and remains committed to further deepening its cooperation in all areas of mutual interests, adding that, “Together, they can harness the potential of their people and resources to create a brighter future for all.”
Meanwhile, the President expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Indonesia for the scholarships awarded to Liberian students.
“These scholarships play a crucial role in enhancing our capacity in various sectors and have empowered many Liberian students to pursue their academic dreams,” President Boakai remarked.
“The investment in education and human capital development is a reflection of Indonesia’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s growth and development goals, he concluded.
