Liberia and China Strengthen Maritime Relations with Landmark Transport Agreement

Beijing, China – Liberia and China have signed a Maritime Transport Agreement following high-level bilateral talks between the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) delegation, led by Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., and the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China. The signing ceremony, which took place in Beijing, marks a milestone in the partnership between the two nations. Both Liberia and China emphasized the importance of maritime transport to their socio-economic development and affirmed their commitment to fostering stronger ties in the sector.

The agreement aligns with China's ambitious Belt & Road Initiative, which is already making contributions to Liberia's infrastructure development. Discussions during the meeting highlighted plans for future collaboration in maritime infrastructure, shipbuilding, and port development to further benefit both countries.

The two nations reaffirmed their commitments to address the challenges of ship decarbonization and maritime security, emphasizing the need for environmentally sustainable and secure maritime operations.

During the discussions, the Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr. expressed gratitude for the numerous educational opportunities provided to Liberian students in China. He also requested expanded cooperation in maritime training, particularly through the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI), to enhance officer training programs, maritime security, search and rescue operations, and surveillance capabilities.

Commissioner/CEO Lighe, Sr., praised the enduring relationship between the two countries and reaffirmed Liberia's support for the "One China Policy." The meeting underscored China's role as a key partner in Liberia's maritime development.