Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – A group of distinguished Liberian professionals working in Ethiopia and beyond met with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., to discuss key issues related to Liberia’s contributions to peace, security, and humanitarian efforts, as well as strategies to enhance the country’s international representation.

The meeting which took place on Sunday, February 16, 2025, on the sidelines of the African Union Summit highlighted the significant work being carried out by Liberians across various sectors in support of global peace and security initiatives. The discussions showcased the diverse expertise Liberians bring to international organizations, reaffirming the nation’s legacy of leadership and commitment to regional and global stability.

Among the major issues raised was the urgent need for the Government of Liberia to expedite the transfer of USD 20 million worth of security equipment donated by the African Union. The equipment, currently stored at the AU’s Continental Logistics Base (CLB) in Douala, Cameroon, is intended to enhance Liberia’s security sector.

Notably, a Liberian professional is currently serving as the Acting Head of the CLB, demonstrating Liberia’s strong presence within the AU’s operational framework.

Additionally, participants highlighted the importance of increasing the representation of Liberians in international organizations, including ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations. They called on the Government of Liberia to actively support the recruitment of qualified Liberians for both senior and junior positions, ensuring that the country’s expertise is effectively leveraged in key decision-making roles.

An administrative request was also presented regarding the possibility of granting diplomatic passports to Liberian professionals holding senior positions or undertaking high-level responsibilities, particularly those working in conflict zones and traveling extensively in the course of their duties.

Furthermore, the meeting acknowledged the presence of an estimated 15 to 20 Liberian professionals in Ethiopia, with a recommendation for consolidating an official figure to better reflect their contributions and engagements.

The participants also emphasized the need for Liberia to actively promote its historic role as a founding member of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) which is now the African Union (AU).

The professionals urged the Government of Liberia to amplify the country’s legacy in the creation of the AU, particularly the pivotal role played by Liberia’s founding fathers during the 1959 Sanniquellie conference, which laid the foundation for African unity.

President Boakai welcomed the discussions and reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to leveraging Liberia’s talents on the global stage while strengthening its position within international organizations.

This engagement reaffirms Liberia’s longstanding leadership on the continent and the invaluable contributions of its professionals to international development, peace, and security.