Liberia, China Strengthen Strategic Partnership at 2026 New Year Reception

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ADNews-Monrovia,Liberia: The Government of Liberia and the People’s Republic of China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation, as Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung Sr. joined members of the Chinese community and the diplomatic corps to celebrate the 2026 Chinese New Year at the Golden Gate Hotel in Monrovia.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., Vice President Koung described China’s rise as “one of the most defining stories of our time,” underscoring the global impact of the nation’s transformation.

“With utmost respect and uncommon joy, I join you this evening to celebrate the Chinese New Year  a season that symbolizes renewal, unity, hope, and prosperity,” Koung declared before an audience comprising cabinet ministers, lawmakers, diplomats, members of the Chinese community, and invited guests.

Vice President noted that beyond its cultural significance, the celebration reflects the “endurance, discipline, vision, and values that have shaped China’s remarkable journey.”

“I believe that China’s evolution into a global economic powerhouse is one of the most defining stories of our time,” he said.  “Through strategic planning, innovation, investment in human capital, and an unwavering commitment to development, China has lifted hundreds of millions of its people out of poverty and has become a driving force of global growth, trade, technology, and infrastructure.”

He emphasized that Liberia has followed China’s progress with admiration and looks forward to expanding cooperation across key sectors.

Vice President Koung described Liberia–China relations as “strategic, respectful, and mutually beneficial,” grounded in shared values of sovereignty and a common pursuit of development.

“China has stood with Liberia in moments of rebuilding and transformation, and for that, we are deeply grateful,” he stated.

He highlighted China’s tangible contributions to Liberia’s infrastructure, particularly the ongoing construction of the country’s first modern overhead bridge along Tubman Boulevard  a landmark initiative regarded as a symbol of enduring friendship and shared progress. “With the ongoing construction of Liberia’s first modern overhead bridge along Tubman Boulevard, China has once again demonstrated the enduring symbols of friendship, cooperation, and shared progress,” Koung noted.

The Vice President also commended China’s scholarship and capacity-building initiatives for Liberian students, describing them as vital investments in the country’s future. “By investing in the education of our young people, China is indeed investing in Liberia’s future,” he added.

Reaffirming Liberia’s diplomatic position, Koung stressed that the government remains fully committed to sustaining and expanding ties with China, citing significant opportunities in trade, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, technology transfer, and people-to-people exchanges.

Also addressing the reception, Chinese Ambassador to Liberia H.E  Yin Chengwu announced that 2026 has been designated as the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges  a landmark initiative aimed at deepening cultural and grassroots connections across the continent.

According to Ambassador Yin, the initiative was jointly agreed upon by President Xi Jinping and African leaders during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

“Approximately 600 activities will be organized throughout the year across China and Africa to promote cultural exchanges, mutual understanding, and grassroots cooperation,” Ambassador Yin disclosed. “The friendship between the Chinese and African peoples remains the foundation of China-Africa relations.”

He noted that with a combined population exceeding 2.8 billion people, China and Africa possess vast potential for enhanced collaboration and shared prosperity.

The Ambassador further revealed that China will work closely with Liberia to implement activities designed to strengthen bilateral friendship.

Ambassador Yin also commended Chinese nationals residing in Liberia for their dedication and contributions over the past year, noting that their efforts have strengthened practical cooperation and enhanced bilateral relations.

Reaffirming the Embassy’s commitment, he stated that it will continue to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in Liberia while encouraging them to respect local laws, prioritize health and safety, and fulfill their social responsibilities.

As the evening concluded in an atmosphere of cultural celebration and diplomatic goodwill, Vice President Koung expressed optimism about the future of Liberia–China relations.

“As we celebrate this New Year, may it bring renewed hope, strengthened friendship, and cooperation between our two nations,” he said. “May the bond between Liberia and China continue to grow deeper, stronger, and more impactful for generations to come.”

The 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges is widely expected to further consolidate diplomatic relations and foster closer bonds between China and African nations  with Liberia positioned as a committed and enthusiastic partner in advancing shared development and prosperity.

The Speaker also acknowledged the establishment of Chinese language courses by the Chinese Embassy in Monrovia in October 2009, an initiative designed to bridge communication gaps and deepen business and cultural ties between the two nations.

“China has been a valued partner to the Government and people of Liberia,” Speaker Koon affirmed. “We appreciate the People’s Republic of China for standing with us.”

In closing, Speaker Koon extended best wishes for prosperity, peace, and continued collaboration in the Lunar New Year, expressing hope that bilateral relations between Liberia and China will be further enhanced and sustained in the years ahead.