Liberia and China have entered into a landmark Development Cooperation Agreement valued at 100 million Renminbi, approximately US$14 million. The signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia on January 9, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.
The agreement was signed by Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and China’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Liberia, H.E. Yin Chengwu. Both officials underscored the importance of the deal as a foundation for deeper cooperation and mutual growth.
The grant-funded initiative is designed to support projects jointly identified by both governments. These projects will align with Liberia’s national priorities and focus on promoting peace, stability, prosperity, and sustainable development. Minister Nyanti described the agreement as both timely and strategic. She emphasized that it reaffirms enduring principles such as mutual respect, sovereign equality, non-interference, and a shared commitment to development.
She conveyed the gratitude of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., and the Liberian people to the Government and people of China for their continued partnership and support. Nyanti highlighted that the agreement reflects the outcomes of high-level engagements between President Boakai and President Xi Jinping, as well as the shared vision articulated at the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.
Ambassador Yin hailed the agreement as a major step forward in China–Liberia relations. He noted that the grant will finance development cooperation projects aligned with Liberia’s framework and priorities. He stressed that signing the agreement at the start of the year sends a strong and positive signal for bilateral cooperation in 2026 and beyond. Ambassador Yin further explained that the agreement gives practical effect to the consensus reached between President Xi Jinping and President Boakai. He emphasized that it consolidates mutual trust, deepens cooperation, and strengthens people-to-people exchanges.
Minister Nyanti praised China’s development philosophy, noting its emphasis on people-centered, practical, and results-oriented initiatives. She said these values strongly align with Liberia’s own development priorities. She reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to the One China Policy and pledged the government’s full dedication to ensuring the effective implementation of the agreement for the benefit of the Liberian people. Ambassador Yin pointed to China’s ongoing support to Liberia, referencing recent assistance such as police equipment, food aid, and major infrastructure projects.
He highlighted the construction of two overpass bridges along Tubman Boulevard as an example of China’s tangible contributions to Liberia’s development. The Chinese envoy emphasized that the new agreement will align with President Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, prioritizing projects that deliver real benefits to ordinary Liberians and create long-term development impact. Minister Nyanti noted that the agreement is not just about financial support but also about strengthening Liberia’s capacity to achieve sustainable growth and stability.
She stressed that Liberia views China as a trusted partner whose support has consistently advanced the country’s socio-economic transformation. Ambassador Yin reiterated China’s high regard for Liberia as a partner in Africa. He said the agreement reflects China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s post-conflict recovery and modernization efforts. The signing ceremony was attended by senior government officials and representatives of both governments, underscoring the importance both sides attach to the growing strategic partnership. The agreement is expected to expand cooperation across key sectors, inject new momentum into Liberia’s socio-economic transformation, and foster long-term stability, employment opportunities, and improved living standards for the Liberian people.
Author: Victor Quaye
