The Governments of Japan and Liberia have signed an exchange of notes to extend the Japan Freeway, enhancing the road corridor between the Freeport of Monrovia and the Gabriel Tucker Bridge. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship and supports Liberia’s national development plans.
On March 12, 2025, the Governments of Japan and Liberia officially signed an exchange of notes to enhance the Japan Freeway-Road corridor connecting the Freeport of Monrovia and the Gabriel Tucker Bridge. The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, showcasing the enduring partnership between the two nations in various sectors, including economic and cultural cooperation.
Dr. Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei, Liberia’s Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, described the event as a meaningful milestone in Liberia-Japan relations. He expressed appreciation for Japan’s contributions over the years, which have been critical in rebuilding Liberia’s infrastructure and revamping its economy post-civil war. Japan’s assistance has also focused on education and training for civil servants and private enterprises in Liberia.
Moreover, Deputy Minister Nyei highlighted Japan’s KR Food Assistance and its significant impact on funding socio-economic initiatives in Liberian communities. He mentioned the Japan Freeway, a key infrastructure project financed by Japan, which has aided in the movement of goods and people, thus enhancing economic development. The extension of the Japan Freeway will add an additional 1.9 kilometers, improving connectivity from the Freeport to the Gabriel Tucker Bridge.
The support from Japan is aligned with Liberia’s national development strategy, the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID). The agenda prioritizes various sectors including infrastructure development, with a keen interest in bolstering economic activities and expanding the private sector to stabilize the economy.
Deputy Minister Nyei reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to furthering collaboration with Japan and expressed gratitude for Japan’s endorsement of Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. In a show of mutual respect, he also endorsed Japan’s own candidacy for the 2033-2034 term.
Ambassador Yoshimoto Hiroshi of Japan emphasized the significance of the Japan Freeway, recalling past support for its reconstruction. He asserted that the extension project will alleviate traffic congestion and enhance commuter connectivity, which is aligned with Japan’s ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure in Africa.
The event was attended by prominent officials from both countries, signifying strong diplomatic ties and a mutual commitment to development and cooperative progress in infrastructure and economic growth.
In conclusion, the exchange of notes between Japan and Liberia represents a pivotal advancement in their bilateral relations, focusing on infrastructural development through the enhancement of the Japan Freeway. This collaboration aims to support Liberia’s economic growth and address vital sectors outlined in the ARREST Agenda. The reciprocal support regarding United Nations candidacies further underscores the spirit of partnership, ensuring mutual development and strategic alignment between the two nations.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
