– Foreign Ministry Refutes Claims of Renewed Diplomatic Relations with Russia
Monrovia: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia has started to clarify recent reports published by the Womenvoices Newspaper regarding Liberia’s diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation. The article claimed that Liberia had renewed its diplomatic relations with Russia, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy. This report has been categorically denied by the Ministry.
The Womenvoices Newspaper reported that during an inspiring speech at the inaugural Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum held in Sochi, Russia, Dr. Ibrahim Nyei, Deputy Minister of International Cooperation and Economic Integration, announced a renewal of diplomatic relations with Russia. The article suggested that Dr. Nyei emphasized Liberia’s readiness to strengthen ties with Russia in areas such as technical assistance, peace and security, and economic cooperation.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that no such announcement was made. While Dr. Nyei did participate in the Russia-Africa Summit, his attendance was part of Liberia’s broader engagement with the African bloc, comprising 50 countries. The Ministry emphasized that Liberia’s participation in the conference does not indicate a shift in its bilateral relations with Russia.
The Ministry further stated that Liberia and Russia established diplomatic relations in 1972, which were disrupted when Russia closed its embassy in Monrovia during Liberia’s civil crisis. There have been no discussions or plans to alter the current status of these relations. The Ministry also noted that no formal diplomatic communications have been received from Russia regarding the reopening of its embassy in Liberia.
The Ministry reiterated that Liberia’s foreign policy is directed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who is deeply committed to strengthening the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and ensuring regional stability. Liberia’s involvement in the Russia-Africa Summit was in line with its efforts to promote peace and development on the continent and to support its bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
During the summit, Liberia highlighted the importance of non-interference in the ECOWAS region and stressed the need to prevent the region from becoming a battleground for proxy wars. The Liberian delegation underscored Liberia’s role as a model for regional economic integration and peace, reflecting its post-conflict success story.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also highlighted that any future diplomatic proposals from Russia or any other nation will be thoroughly evaluated by the President of Liberia. The Ministry remains committed to transparency and is available to address any inquiries or provide further clarifications regarding Liberia’s international relations and foreign policy.
For more information or to seek clarifications, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs encourages the general public, media outlets, and international partners to directly contact the Ministry.
This statement aims to rectify any misconceptions and ensure that the public and international community are accurately informed about Liberia’s diplomatic engagements and foreign policy directions.
