President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. on Wednesday held bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Yokohama, Japan, ahead of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).
The high-level meeting focused on strengthening the more than six-decade-long ties between Liberia and Japan, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to closer cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
President Boakai expressed deep gratitude to the Japanese government and people for their sustained support toward Liberia’s development, particularly in infrastructure, health, food security, and capacity building. He recalled Japan’s timely interventions during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, as well as key projects such as the extension of the Japan Freeway, the reconstruction of the Somalia Drive Road, and ongoing emergency food aid.
The Liberian leader emphasized that his government is eager to expand collaboration with Japan in science, technology, agriculture, and investment promotion, while also encouraging Japanese investors to explore opportunities in Liberia’s development agenda.
On regional security, Boakai pointed to challenges confronting West Africa including piracy, organized crime, arms proliferation, and unconstitutional changes of government calling for greater international partnership to tackle these threats and secure peace and stability.
Prime Minister Ishiba, in his remarks, congratulated Liberia on its election to the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to deepening ties with Liberia. He welcomed Liberia’s participation in the upcoming Expo 2025 Osaka, describing it as a vital opportunity to showcase the nation’s culture and heritage on the world stage.
The Japanese leader also expressed interest in Liberia’s tourism potential, highlighting the importance of protecting the country’s unique biodiversity, including the endangered pygmy hippopotamus, which he called a “symbol of Liberia’s natural heritage.” He pledged Japan’s readiness to support Liberia in sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
On maritime matters, Prime Minister Ishiba underscored the long-standing partnership between Japan and the Liberian Ship Registry, noting its vital role in global shipping and voicing optimism about expanding cooperation for mutual benefit.
He further praised President Boakai’s ARREST Agenda focused on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism noting its alignment with Japan’s priorities for engagement in Africa. Ishiba assured the Liberian leader that Japan would support these development efforts under his administration.
Both leaders concluded their meeting with a pledge to strengthen Liberia–Japan relations through greater cooperation in trade, development, investment, tourism, and international security.
