President Boakai Hosts New Year’s Reception for Diplomatic and Consular Corps, and Development Partners

Executive Mansion, Monrovia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., on Friday, February 20, 2026, hosted a New Year’s Reception in honor of Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and Liberia’s Development Partners at the Executive Mansion.

The well-attended reception, held in the gardens of the Mansion, brought together ambassadors, heads of missions, representatives of international organizations, and senior government officials in a renewed spirit of partnership and cooperation.

In his remarks, President Boakai expressed Liberia’s interest in strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations and repositioning the country on the international stage. He described the gathering as a significant moment of reflection, renewal, and appreciation for the enduring partnerships that have supported Liberia’s democratic and development journey.

The Liberian leader reflected on the nation’s longstanding diplomatic legacy, recalling Liberia’s early engagement in global multilateralism, including its role in the League of Nations, its status as a founding signatory of the United Nations, and its participation in the foundational processes that led to the establishment of continental cooperation frameworks in Africa.

President Boakai expressed profound gratitude to members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps for their continued engagement and solidarity, particularly during challenging periods.

“Whether we know it or not, we are all human, and we are very grateful for what you bring to our country — the friendship, the interest you pay in what we do. We want to say thank you and let you know that we value your presence in our country,” the President stated.

He acknowledged the steadfast support of Liberia’s development partners in accompanying the country’s transition from conflict to peace and from peace to sustainable development, noting that despite global economic pressures and funding constraints over the past year, Liberia continued to benefit from meaningful international cooperation.

The President also commended the Diplomatic and Consular Corps for their support toward Liberia’s successful election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a tenure that commenced in January. He assured partners that Liberia will approach its responsibility with humility, purpose, and commitment to global peace and stability.

Speaking to current global dynamics marked by geopolitical competition, economic volatility, climate challenges, and rapid technological transformation, President Boakai emphasized the need for diplomacy anchored in mutual respect, political cooperation, and tangible economic outcomes for citizens.

He underscored his Administration’s focus on expanding collaboration in trade and investment, energy transition, digital innovation, food security, and human capital development.

Additionally, he reiterated Liberia’s commitment to strengthening regional integration through ECOWAS, the Mano River Union, and the African Union, recognizing that a stable and prosperous West Africa remains central to shared progress.

The President expressed appreciation to bilateral and regional partners for their support in advancing peace, democratic governance, human rights, gender equity, environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and private sector growth.

He noted that the true impact of diplomacy is measured not only in agreements signed, but in improved classrooms, strengthened clinics, expanded economic opportunities, and better living conditions for citizens.

President Boakai also acknowledged Sweden’s longstanding partnership with Liberia and extended appreciation to members of the diplomatic community concluding their assignments, assuring them that their service and friendship will remain valued by the Liberian people.

As the program concluded, the President reiterated Liberia’s readiness to deepen diplomatic engagement built on trust, shared values, and collective prosperity.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Liberia, I thank you for your genuine friendship, your solidarity, and your continued partnership in advancing Liberia’s progress,” President Boakai concluded.