Pres. Boakai Returns From U.S. Visit, Urges Stronger Global Partnerships
By Amos Harris
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has returned to Liberia following a week-long high-level diplomatic engagement in the United States Calling for renewed international partnerships while reaffirming his administration’s unwavering focus on national self-reliance and the pursuit of strategic development goals.
He spoke to journalists at the Roberts International Airport upon his arrival on Friday July 11, 2025 In Margibi County
President Boakai described the U.S. visit as “a very positive move” aligned with his “Liberia First” policy an agenda that prioritizes national interest at the core of every engagement and development initiative.
“Everything we’re doing is centered around putting Liberia first,” the President said.
“That’s what guides our efforts ensuring that our country’s interests are prioritized in all our engagements.”
The Liberian leader used the occasion to remind citizens of the importance of peace, unity, and mutual respect in moving the country forward.
“We are committed to peace and security in our country. Liberia belongs to all Liberians. We must ensure that we respect one another as we move forward together,” he emphasized.
While in the United States, President Boakai held a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with leaders and representatives from more than 15 countries, As well as officials from international development institutions, global investment firms, and diaspora communities.
These engagements centered on advancing partnerships in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and technology transfer.
He acknowledged that Liberia still faces challenges in climbing the ranks of Africa’s top investment destinations but remained optimistic about ongoing reforms and efforts aimed at improving the business climate.
“We are working toward becoming a leading destination for investment.
It’s not just about external confidence it’s about building confidence within ourselves, our systems, and our leadership,” President Boakai asserted.
President Boakai highlighted the distinct approaches to development by global powers like China and the United States, but made it clear that Liberia must define its own development trajectory.
“We do not have the technology yet, We do not know how long some partners will remain committed.
But our focus is to build a self-sufficient Liberia one that no longer depends entirely on outside help,” he said.
According to the President, Liberia’s progress must be rooted in innovation, discipline and a sense of ownership by its people and leadership.
He also reiterated that as the country’s chief diplomat, it is his duty to positively market Liberia to the world and restore confidence in its potential.
“My role is to sell Liberia in a positive way to tell our story and show the rest of the world who we are. We must be bold.
We must aim for greatness, that’s how progress is made,” he noted
President Boakai’s visit to the United States is seen as part of his broader strategy to support the implementation of the ARREST Agenda Which stands for Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation and Tourism?
The agenda serves as the blueprint for sustainable development under his administration.
Through partnerships, both bilateral and multilateral, the Boakai administration seeks to mobilize funding, technical support And institutional collaboration to address persistent challenges in infrastructure, youth empowerment, human capital development, and public service delivery.
The President Boakai emphasized the need for Liberians to embrace a renewed spirit of patriotism and cooperation as the nation embarks on a path toward greater stability and prosperity.
“This is a defining moment for our country. Let us take ownership of our future.
Let us work together, at home and abroad, to build a Liberia that is strong, united, and respected,” he concluded.
President Boakai’s diplomatic mission is expected to yield tangible outcomes in the coming months as government ministries and agencies follow up on leads generated during his U.S. visit.
Officials say the engagements have opened new windows for potential investment, technical collaboration, and international goodwill.
As Liberia pushes to reposition itself on the global stage, the President’s message is clear, national self-reliance, responsible leadership and productive partnerships are key to securing the future.