By: Archie Boan
Liberia’s Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence has announced that China has agreed to fund the renovation of the fire damaged Joint Chamber of the Capitol Building and several legislative offices.
The announcement was made Tuesday ( October 21, 2025) during her opening remarks at the 44th day sitting of the Senate’s second session of the 55th Legislature, following her return from an official visit to Beijing, China.
Pro-Tempore Karnga-Lawrence said the commitment was secured during a high-level meeting with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress China’s legislative body and the third most senior leader in the Chinese Communist Party hierarchy.
“At our dinner meeting, I requested China’s support to repair the joint chamber that was burned and renovate offices at the Capitol. Chairman Zhao immediately instructed the inclusion of my request among approved projects for Liberia,” she revealed.
The Pro-Temp said the pledge was confirmed in the presence of China’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Liberia’s Ambassador to Beijing. She added that the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), responsible for foreign aid projects, also highlighted the request during discussions.
In addition to infrastructure support, Pro-Temp Karnga-Lawrence disclosed that China approved scholarship and exchange programs for legislative staffers — part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and capacity-building within the Liberian Legislature.
Meanwhile, she said a formal report on the trip will be turned over to the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs for follow-up actions, and a communication will be sent to House Speaker Richard Koon to coordinate implementation.
The Pro-Temp’s announcement came as part of a comprehensive address outlining Senate reform achievements, ongoing oversight priorities, and plans for stronger financial, human resource, and digital management systems.
