Liberia Rebranded

By Jamesetta D. Williams

MONROVIA–Ibrahim Nyei, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has highlighted significant strides in Liberia’s foreign affairs and economic diplomacy since assuming office.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Deputy Minister Nyei outlined efforts to rebrand Liberia internationally and reposition the country in global diplomacy, aligned with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

Among key achievements, Nyei announced that Liberia’s candidacy for the African Union Peace and Security Council has been formally accepted. The election for one of the West African seats will take place during the African Union Executive Council session in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 11–12. The Council, akin to the UN Security Council at the continental level, plays a pivotal role in conflict prevention, management, and resolution in Africa.

In addition, Liberia has assumed the rotational chairmanship of the African Group at the United Nations, giving the country a platform to lead discussions and shape Africa’s collective voice on global issues.

On the economic diplomacy front, Nyei revealed that the Liberia–EU Business Forum will be held in Brussels from February 24–26, bringing together approximately 60 Liberian businesses, including private sector actors and state-owned enterprises.

The forum aims to translate diplomatic engagement into tangible economic benefits, fostering investment and trade partnerships for Liberian enterprises. Nyei cited examples such as local entrepreneurs producing dried mango products in Nimba, whose businesses could scale through international investor connections.

Regarding Liberia’s responsibilities on the United Nations Security Council, Nyei explained that the Ministry has strengthened the capacity of its Permanent Mission in New York through a merit-based recruitment process managed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Selected staff are already deployed, with a second recruitment phase underway.

Deputy Minister Nyei also acknowledged challenges facing Liberia’s foreign service, including limited staff deployment, pay disparities, infrastructure deficits, and climate vulnerability.

Measures to address these challenges include modernizing systems, professionalizing operations, and coordinating reforms with key stakeholders to improve service delivery nationwide.

He emphasized that Liberia’s foreign policy focuses on expanding economic opportunities for Liberians, strengthening institutional capacity abroad, promoting compliance with international laws, and integrating the country into regional and global economic frameworks through platforms such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

On immigration matters, including US deportation and the Diversity Visa program, Nyei clarified that these are determined by host country laws. Liberia’s role is to advise citizens, maintain diplomatic relations, and support the reintegration of those returned from abroad.

Deputy Minister Nyei concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to enhancing its international presence, promoting economic growth, and protecting the interests of Liberians at home and abroad.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.