Uniting In Fight Against Terrorism: All-Party India Delegation Arrives In Liberia

By Bill W. Cooper

A high-profile All-Party India Delegation has arrived in Liberia for a two-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and discussing collaborative efforts in the global fight against terrorism.

The delegation, led by senior Indian parliamentarians, was received by India’s Ambassador to Liberia, Manoj Bihari Verma, and two members from the House of Representatives at the Roberts International Airport, marking a significant step in fostering diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The delegation, comprising Members of the Indian Parliament and a senior diplomat’s arrival in the country, is part of the Indian Government’s continued efforts under ‘Operation Sindoor and is in line with India’s principles.’

Those making up the team are the Head of Delegation and Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha (Lower House), Shiv Sena, Dr. Shrikant Eknath Shand inde, MmMs. Bansuri Swaraj, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Others are Mr. ET Mohammed Basheer, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), Mr. Atul Garg, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Dr. Sasmit Patra, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha (Upper House), Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Mr Manan Kumar Mishra, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mr. S. S. Ahluwalia, Former Member of Parliament and Former Minister of State, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Ambassador Sujan Chinoy, Former Ambassador to Japan and Mexico, Former Consul General of India in Shanghai and Sydney are also part of the visiting delegation.

However, the delegation visit comes at a time when both countries are struggling with the rising threat of terrorism and extremism, which have become pressing global issues, including the recent attack from Pakistan on India, and the ongoing military coup within the African region.

Upon their arrival at the RIA On on Saturday, May 31, 2025, the delegation, through its head, Lok Sabha, expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including security, trade, and cultural exchange.

Emphasizing the importance of united efforts in combating these challenges and highlighting the need for shared strategic partnerships, Mr. Sabha further conveyed India’s strong message of zero tolerance towards terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

He added, “Our visit to Liberia is not just about strengthening bilateral ties; it is about standing together against the common threats that endanger our societies. Terrorism knows no borders, and it is imperative that we work collaboratively to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.”

Earlier receiving the delegation at the RIA, Montserrado County Districts 2 and 8 Representatives, Sekou S. Kanneh and Prince A Toles, welcomed the team, and conveyed the House leadership excitement over the visit to the country.

Rep. Kanneh, who is also the Chairperson of the House’s Committee on Executive added, “We want to welcome all you to Liberia, a land blessed by God, on behalf the leadership of the House, headed by Speaker Richard Koon, and we hope that your visit here will be fruitful and rewarding.”

As part of their visit, the delegation on Sunday, June 1, 2025, toured the National Museum of Liberia in Monrovia, where they were introduced to the rich cultural heritage and history of the Country.

The museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Liberia’s past, served as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the citizenry, as the delegation members engaged with the museum tour, and discussed the importance of preserving cultural identity in the face of modern challenges, including terrorism.

In a gesture of respect and solidarity, the delegation also visited the grave of former President William V.S. Tubman, Liberia’s longest serving President and a pivotal figure in the country’s history, thereby being regarded as ‘Father of Modern Liberia.’

Laying flowers at his resting place, the Indian parliamentarians paid tribute to Tubman’s legacy and his contributions to the nation, an act that symbolizes the shared values of democracy and governance that both India and Liberia uphold.

Meanwhile, the delegation will on today, May 2, 2025, meet with President Joseph Boakai, House Speaker, Richard Koon, Senate Pro-Temp, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Foreign Minister, Sarah Beysolow Nyanti and as well as leading think tanks and representatives of the media.

The discussions between the Indian delegation and Liberian officials are expected or might focus on enhancing security cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism strategies.

India has faced threats from extremist groups recently, and the need for a united front has never been more critical, as the Indian government has been actively involved in international counter-terrorism initiatives and is keen to share its experiences and best practices with Liberia.

The delegation’s visit is also seen as an opportunity for the Liberian government to explore avenues for economic cooperation, with discussions likely to include trade agreements and investment opportunities.

India has been a significant partner in Liberia’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts, providing assistance in various sectors, including education, health, and infrastructure development among others.

As the All-Party India Delegation embarks on their important visit, the message is clear: ‘united in the fight against terrorism,’ India and Liberia are committed to building a safer, more secure future for their citizens.

The outcomes of this visit could pave the way for a stronger partnership, not only in addressing security challenges but also in fostering economic growth and cultural exchange between the two nations.