A Canadian government delegation is visiting Liberia to explore investment opportunities in renewable energy and related sectors. The officials engaged with Liberian authorities to discuss potential collaborations, emphasizing the long-standing relationship between the two countries and ongoing projects supported by Canada. The visit aims to strengthen ties and promote sustainable development in Liberia.
A delegation from the Canadian government, consisting of three senior officials, is visiting Liberia to explore investment opportunities, specifically in renewable energy sectors. This visit is supported by the Office of Liberia Trade & Investment in Canada and aims to engage with key Liberian authorities to discuss potential collaborative initiatives.
The delegation includes Mr. Amadou Kane, Counsellor and Chief of Bilateral Cooperation for Ivory Coast; Ms. Marie Belanger, Team Leader in Canadian and International Partnerships; and Mr. Euloge Camara, Regional Climate Finance Trade Commissioner for Africa, affiliated with the Canadian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire.
During discussions with Liberian officials, the Canadian team addressed topics such as bilateral relations, trade, technological innovation, and green energy initiatives. They underscored the deep-rooted relationship between Canada and Liberia, which has flourished since 1971. Engagements included dialogues with the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Sylvester Grigsby, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties.
The discussions elaborated on partnerships in areas of human capital development, capacity building, and private sector investment. The Canadian officials mentioned ongoing financial support for Canadian firms operating in Africa, initiatives that support gender equality, infrastructure projects, and climate change adaptation, coupled with technical assistance for private school teachers in Liberia.
Mr. Amadou Kane revealed that while Canada does not have a formal bilateral program in Liberia, it operates several trading programs, with investments amounting to several million United States dollars implemented by NGOs and local organizations. He emphasized the importance of identifying investment challenges and opportunities in Liberia.
Mr. Euloge Camara expressed enthusiasm for the visit, stating, “The main reason we are here is to hear from you and see what we can do together,” recognizing the necessity for collaboration in combating climate change. He highlighted Canada’s ongoing support for initiatives aimed at helping Canadian firms expand in Africa, including Liberia.
Minister Grigsby reiterated Liberia’s commitment to environmental protection and renewable energy. He expressed eagerness for collaborations to enhance the energy sector, combining efforts from both nations for substantial outcomes. This visit follows the Liberia Investment Forum in Toronto, where global investors showed interest in various sectors within Liberia.
Minister Grigsby emphasized the importance of environmental conservation for the well-being of citizens and reiterated the government’s openness to work with investors to improve energy availability. He stated that the government is determined to strengthen ties with Canada through the Office of Liberia Trade & Investment in Canada.
The delegation plans to meet with additional authorities, including those from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and the National Investment Commission, marking a directed approach to foster effective partnerships aimed at driving Liberia’s development and sustainability.
Canada’s involvement aligns with its commitment to addressing climate change and increasing support for programs and projects in Africa, and the visit represents a significant milestone in promoting investment opportunities in Liberia. The Office of Liberia Trade & Investment in Canada was represented by Madam Jallahqueena Hawa Konneh during this important visit.
In summary, the visit by the Canadian government officials to Liberia represents a concerted effort to explore and advance investment opportunities, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable initiatives. The discussions emphasized strengthening bilateral relations, identifying challenges, and fostering partnerships to support Liberia’s developmental goals. The commitment expressed by both Canadian and Liberian officials highlights the potential for collaboration in addressing critical areas, promoting economic growth, and enhancing sustainability.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
