NEW YORK, USA – In a pivotal bilateral meeting on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, President Joseph Boakai of Liberia met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The discussion reinforced Liberia’s steadfast dedication to national development, global peace, democracy, and multilateral cooperation.
During the meeting, President Boakai extended his gratitude to Secretary-General Guterres for his warm reception, highlighting the longstanding positive relationship between Liberia and the United Nations. He lauded Guterres for his relentless efforts in fostering international cooperation and supporting global stability.
President Boakai took the opportunity to outline Liberia’s progress in strengthening democracy and upholding the rule of law since the end of its civil conflict. He noted Liberia’s peaceful standing in the international community and used the moment to bolster the country’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). “Liberia is ready to play an active role within the UN system and regain its global stature. As a founding member of the UN, our nation, having emerged from conflict, is uniquely positioned to contribute meaningfully to global peace and security,” President Boakai emphasized.
The discussion also touched on Liberia’s commitment to democratic principles, with President Boakai stressing that the nation has maintained a strong democratic culture since the cessation of conflict. He reaffirmed Liberia’s intent to actively support the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and contribute to regional peace and security.
Additionally, President Boakai addressed the critical issue of reintegrating Liberians who fled the country during its civil war and are now returning. He called for increased support from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to ensure their smooth reintegration into society.
The President also highlighted pressing national challenges, including the drug crisis and the government’s ongoing efforts to address it. He emphasized the importance of investing in Liberia’s youthful population, noting that high unemployment remains a concern, but the country is making strides toward harnessing its demographic potential for economic recovery.
Secretary-General Guterres commended Liberia’s transition from conflict to peace, acknowledging its growing democratic influence in West Africa. He praised the nation’s progress in building an inclusive society and expressed optimism about Liberia’s trajectory toward sustainable economic growth. Guterres also reaffirmed the United Nations’ ongoing support for Liberia’s peacebuilding and development agenda.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration between Liberia and the United Nations, underscoring both parties’ dedication to advancing global peace, security, and development.
The high-level Liberian delegation attending the meeting included Honorable Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Honorable Samuel Kofi Woods, Security Adviser to the President; Madam Sarah Safyn Fyneah, Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations; and Honorable Nathaniel Kwabo, Director General of the Cabinet.
