Japan and Liberia signed an agreement to extend the Japan Freeway Road corridor, enhancing connectivity between the Freeport of Monrovia and the Gabriel Tucker Bridge. Deputy Minister Nyei hailed it as a milestone in bilateral relations, stressing Japan’s significant role in Liberia’s post-war development. The project supports Liberia’s national development agenda. Japan’s Ambassador highlighted the importance of infrastructure for local community benefits.
The Governments of Japan and Liberia have formalized an exchange of notes for the extension of the Japan Freeway-Road corridor, linking the Freeport of Monrovia with the Gabriel Tucker Bridge on Johnson Street. The signing took place on March 12, 2025, at Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This project marks a significant advancement in the diplomatic and economic partnership between the two nations.
Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Dr. Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei, praised the event as a vital step in the Liberia-Japan relations, stating, “This event today is a manifestation that Liberia-Japan relations continue to grow from strength to strength.” He expressed appreciation for Japan’s enduring support, particularly in enhancing Liberia’s infrastructure and economy post-civil war.
Highlighting Japan’s KR Food Assistance, Deputy Minister Nyei noted its role in financing various social and economic initiatives for Liberian communities. He referred to the Japan Freeway, a vital 13.2 kilometers urban road, which has facilitated the efficient movement of goods and people, thereby fostering Liberia’s economic progress. The extension of the freeway will comprise an additional 1.9 kilometers from the Freeport of Monrovia to the Gabriel Tucker Bridge.
The Deputy Minister also emphasized that these developments align with Liberia’s national plan, the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), focusing on crucial sectors such as Agriculture, Education, and Road Infrastructure. He stated, “The achievement of the objectives… will depend mainly on increasing economic activities and the growth of the Liberian private sector.”
Nyei reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to enhancing relations with Japan and expressed gratitude for Japan’s endorsement of Liberia for a non-permanent United Nations Security Council seat for 2026-2027. He pledged that Liberia would champion peace, security, and environmental justice while supporting Japan’s own candidacy for the Security Council in 2033-2034.
Japan’s Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Mr. Yoshimoto Hiroshi, acknowledged Japan’s historical contributions to the road infrastructure in Liberia. He reiterated the importance of the new freeway extension in improving commuter connectivity and reducing congestion, emphasizing that the project is part of Japan’s broader initiative to support sustainable development in Africa.
The recent signing of the exchange of notes between Japan and Liberia signifies a critical step forward in their bilateral cooperation, particularly in infrastructure development. The extension of the Japan Freeway will enhance economic connectivity and support Liberia’s national development plan. Gratitude was expressed for Japan’s extensive support, reflecting the strong ties between the two nations, as Liberia seeks to affirm its position on the global stage, including its bid for a seat on the UN Security Council.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
