By Linus Flomo
The governments of Liberia and South Korea marked a significant milestone on November 10, 2024, celebrating the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations with a grand ceremony at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
The event was attended by high-level officials, diplomats, and representatives from various sectors, underscoring the long-standing and evolving partnership between the two nations.
In a keynote address, Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, emphasized the importance of redefining the bilateral relationship to address the current challenges and future opportunities.
“The ties that bind Liberia and South Korea have stood the test of time,” Minister Nyanti said, highlighting the need to strengthen the partnership in the years ahead.
She noted that the 60th anniversary is not only a time to celebrate past achievements but also an opportunity to chart a new course that reflects shared aspirations for mutual growth and development.
Minister Nyanti also reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to supporting peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula, stressing that Liberia stands with South Korea in its pursuit of stability and security in the region.
On behalf of President Boakai, she expressed profound gratitude to the Government and people of South Korea for their unwavering support in Liberia’s development over the past six decades.
She highlighted South Korea’s contributions in areas such as health, education, and infrastructure, which have played a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of Liberians.
Looking to the future, Minister Nyanti emphasized the importance of building on this foundation to explore new areas of cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and innovation. “The next chapter of our relationship must be defined by innovation, resilience, and a shared commitment to the progress of our peoples,” she urged both nations to collaborate to achieve sustainable development.
South Korea’s Ambassador to Liberia Pankyu Kim expressed joy at the celebration of the strong and enduring ties between the two countries.
He noted the partnership had evolved from diplomatic exchanges into a comprehensive relationship of economic cooperation, capacity building, and cultural exchange.
Ambassador Kim also highlighted the positive impact of South Korea’s expertise in Liberia’s agricultural sector, particularly in introducing new technologies and farming techniques that have increased productivity.
“South Korea remains dedicated to supporting Liberia’s development agenda,” Ambassador Kim said, adding that the two countries are committed to exploring new avenues for collaboration, especially in renewable energy, digital transformation, and capacity building.
The celebration was not only marked by speeches and official statements but also by vibrant cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of both nations.
The National Cultural Troupe of Liberia delighted the audience with traditional dances and music, while Korean singer Shin Yujin and the group Daehan Saram captivated the crowd with a mix of Korean traditional and modern pop music.
These performances underscored the deep cultural ties and mutual appreciation that have developed over the years.
As the event drew to a close, both Minister Nyanti and Ambassador Kim expressed optimism for the future of Liberia-South Korea relations, emphasizing the importance of continuing to build on the achievements of the past six decades and addressing emerging global challenges together.
The 60th-anniversary celebration highlighted not only the historical significance of the partnership but also the shared commitment to future cooperation and prosperity between Liberia and South Korea.
