The first round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between India and Liberia was successfully held in Monrovia on December 17, 2024. The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and H.E. Mrs. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia. Senior officials from various Liberian ministries, including those of Commerce, Finance, and Information, as well as Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs, also participated in the discussions.
The FOC marked an important milestone in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations, as it provided an opportunity to explore new avenues for collaboration and further deepen existing partnerships.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
During the course of the meeting, both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of India-Liberia relations, encompassing key areas such as trade, investment, agriculture, mining, education, health and pharmaceuticals, as well as people-to-people exchanges. Both parties expressed their commitment to expanding cooperation in emerging areas of mutual interest, including Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), energy development, and development cooperation.
The discussions also highlighted the growing importance of the India-Liberia partnership within the context of regional and global affairs. The two sides expressed their appreciation for India’s role in advocating for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 and reiterated the significance of this development for the Global South. Liberia, a strong supporter of India’s global initiatives, has been actively involved in India’s Voice of the Global South Summits.
Both nations also agreed to lend their reciprocal support to each other’s candidatures for non-permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the years 2028-29. This decision underscores the shared commitment to a rules-based international order and to strengthening the voice of developing countries at the global stage.
High-Level Engagements and Future Prospects
In addition to the FOC, Mr. Mude held several high-level meetings with prominent Liberian officials, including Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Minister of Health and Social Welfare Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Agriculture Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, and Minister of Commerce & Industry Madam Magdalene Ellen Dagoseh. The Liberian ministers expressed their gratitude for India’s support on various global platforms, particularly regarding the African Union’s role in the G20.
One of the highlights of these meetings was the acknowledgment of India’s efforts to advance Liberia’s economic interests through trade facilitation. Liberia has benefitted from India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference Scheme, which allows for the easier export of Liberian commodities like timber, rubber, and vegetable oil to India. Both sides are also exploring new business opportunities, particularly in agriculture, mineral exploration, and pharmaceuticals.
The opening of India’s Resident Mission in Monrovia in 2021 has significantly enhanced bilateral interactions, and Liberia has expressed interest in opening its own diplomatic mission in New Delhi in the near future. The growing footprint of Indian companies in Liberia—spanning sectors such as automobiles, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and mining—reflects the deepening economic and trade relations between the two nations.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Strategic Ties
India-Liberia trade stood at US$ 256 million in 2023-24, with Indian exports accounting for a significant portion of this figure. Over 200 Indian companies are currently operating in Liberia, further cementing economic links between the two countries. Additionally, Liberia’s membership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) presents significant opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy, with India playing a leading role in solar energy development worldwide.
The FOC discussions concluded with both sides agreeing to hold the next round of consultations in New Delhi, at a mutually convenient date, to continue the momentum of their bilateral cooperation and further strengthen the relationship.
A Bright Future for India-Liberia Relations
With both countries committed to a future of cooperation and mutual growth, the FOC represents a significant step in the deepening of India-Liberia relations. This partnership, based on shared values and common goals, promises to expand further in the years ahead, particularly in the fields of trade, development cooperation, and global governance.