BEIJING – Speaker of the 55th Legislature of Liberia, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, has called for enhanced global parliamentary cooperation, sustainable development, and legislative diplomacy during a meeting with members of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of the People’s Republic of China. The address took place on the sidelines of the 2025 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges in Beijing.
During the meeting, Speaker Koon conveyed greetings from President Joseph Nyumah Boakai and members of the Liberian Legislature, expressing Liberia’s gratitude to the Chinese government and people for their continued partnership and support. He highlighted the pressing global challenges facing the international community, including climate change, terrorism, cyber threats, poverty, migration, trade barriers, and human rights violations.
“The harmonious coexistence of sovereign nations and adherence to international laws that underpin fundamental human rights are cardinal in maintaining global peace,” Speaker Koon said, emphasizing the role of legislators in promoting laws that advance peace, security, and stability worldwide.
Speaker Koon praised China’s remarkable economic growth since its 1978 reforms and urged the NPC to support struggling parliaments globally by building institutional capacity as part of a broader network of parliamentary collaboration. He underscored the theme of the Forum, “Building Global Partnership for Joint Advancement of Common and Sustainable Development,” calling for stronger parliamentary unity and coordinated action to foster inclusive growth and prosperity.
The Liberian Speaker also highlighted China’s tangible contributions to Liberia, including investments in education, agriculture, infrastructure, technical and vocational training, and trade. He commended the construction of two annexes at the Liberian Legislature and the recent groundbreaking of Liberia’s first overhead bridge, valued at USD 30 million, as evidence of China’s commitment to Liberia’s development.
“With sincere commitment and genuineness of true partnership, we will continue to cherish these strong ties with renewed assurances in promoting the One China Policy and strengthening legislative engagements in the years ahead,” Speaker Koon affirmed.
He concluded by urging legislators worldwide to strengthen parliamentary unity and deepen exchanges, emphasizing that collaborative efforts are essential to advancing global peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.
