Liberia has joined world leaders and international partners in Nice, France, to mark the historic entry into force of the United Nations Ocean Treaty.
Liberia was represented at the high-level ceremony by Ambassador Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, who attended on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia.
The event was held at Quai Infernet, the venue of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), under the patronage of the United Nations.
The ceremony brought together heads of state, senior diplomats, environmental advocates and international organizations to commemorate the coming into force of the first legally binding international framework dedicated to the protection of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. These vast ocean spaces account for nearly half of the Earth’s surface and have long lacked comprehensive global protection.
Liberia’s participation underscored its strong commitment to multilateral cooperation, environmental protection and sustainable ocean management. As a maritime nation with a globally significant shipping registry and strong links to the ocean economy, Liberia recognizes the oceans as critical to climate resilience, food security, sustainable development and international trade.
The event also highlighted the leadership role played by France and the City of Nice in advancing international ocean action, as well as the importance of the UNOC3 in mobilizing political momentum toward the treaty’s rapid ratification. With more than 80 countries having ratified the agreement, the BBNJ Treaty’s entry into force reflects growing global determination to protect marine ecosystems beyond national boundaries.
Liberia reaffirmed its support for international legal instruments that promote sustainable ocean governance and the conservation of marine biodiversity, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 14 on Life below Water.
The coming into force of the BBNJ Treaty represents not only a significant legal breakthrough, but also a renewed global pledge to shared responsibility, cooperation and equity in managing the world’s oceans-values Liberia continues to uphold on the international stage in pursuit of a healthier and more sustainable marine environment for future generations.
