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Diplomatic Issue 01, Volume1 - January - June 2016 Diary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of

President New ECOWAS Chair

- Liberia’ New Foreign Minister - Ms. Marjon Vashti Kamara INSIDE - Foreign Minister Commissions 11 Foreign Service Officers - 4th EU - Liberia Political Dialogue January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 1 CONTENTS DIPLOMATIC DIARY

4 First female elected as chair of ecowas

After more than 35 years, Liberia has again been elected Chair of a regional organization, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). 8 to Strengthen Security and Agriculture

As terrorism becomes an increasing threat in the sub-region and beyond, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sought assistance »»p.12 from the State of Israel to complement Liberia’s security preparedness in the wake of the UN Mission’s drawdown and handing over security to the Liberian Government by June 30, 2016. 14 Foreign Minister Kamara, 13 Others Commissioned

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has cautioned commissioned officials of government that the next few months will be an interesting and challenging time 24 UN Peacebuilding Commission Visits Liberia

»»p.19 »»p.4 The Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) says maintaining peace in Liberia is a collective effort and should not be left with the Government alone. 30 Liberia Commends UN Security Council

The Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Liberia to the United Nations has commended the United Nations Security Council for lifting the remaining sanctions and an arms embargo imposed on Liberia during the civil crisis. 38 Fallen Liberian Diplomat

The Government has described the late Liberian Ambassador, Rudolf P. von Ballmoos, as a credible servant and one of the country’s outstanding and foremost diplomats. »»p.8

DIPLOMATIC DIARY

Editor Staff Writers Design & Graphics J. Wesley Washington David Aquoi Laseree Print & Graphic Alaska M. Johnson House (TALL, INC)

Editorial Guidance Photos Shirley N. Brownell Justin Davis B. Elias Shoniyin, Jr. Connect With Us: www.mofa.gov.lr www.facebook.com

2 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Message From the Minister of Foreign Affairs

Greetings and a warm welcome to our very first edi- As such, this 40-page magazine will serve as a snap- tion of Diplomatic Diary, the official magazine of the shot of the various activities, most especially diplo- Ministry of Foreign Affairs. matic initiatives and advancements, undertaken at the level of the Presidency and the Ministry of For- Today, we have added another flavor to the Minis- eign Affairs. try’s public affairs activities, a thought that has been enduring in mind and has now become a reality. Diplomatic Diary is intended to be published quar- terly, and this inaugural issue highlights major dip- The Bureau of Public Affairs is charged with the re- lomatic activities undertaken by the Ministry and the sponsibility to provide adequate information to the country’s foreign Missions over the last two quarters public on Government’s Foreign Policy and dissemi- (January - June 2016). This edition also includes dip- nate information emanating from Government to the lomatic activities of the , Madam Liberian Missions abroad as well as Diplomatic and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, including State Visits, meet- Consular Missions accredited near . ings involving ECOWAS, the African Union, the Unit- Although the print and electronic media institutions ed Nations or others in the interest of the country. are most often used to disseminate information to In subsequent editions, we will highlight important various partners and interlocutors, the need for the activities of the various regional and functional bu- publication of a quarterly magazine that highlights reaus appertaining to cooperation matters and other and documents diplomatic activities of the Presi- engagements with members of the Diplomatic Corps dent of the Republic of Liberia and the Ministry of here. Foreign Affairs, both at home and abroad, for poster- ity, cannot be over-emphasized. Thanks to all, most especially our first readers, who have taken time off to read this maiden edition. It is Proper communication plays a pivotal role in an in- expected that support for this endeavor will be pro- stitution’s development, and Diplomatic Diary in- vided through your valuable suggestions and com- tends to reinforce increased awareness, improved ments. interaction and integration between Liberia, its Mis- sions abroad and its partners. This is only a small step towards a journey that ends when this administration expires in January 2018. To The progress of any society mainly depends on the achieve progress and meet the objectives, we have many people who work behind the scenes, and over- to cross numerous milestones. This maiden edition time, planning the smallest details. This magazine of Diplomatic Diary should inspire all of us for a new will be a medium to provide proper acknowledge- beginning, enlightened with hope, confidence and ment and respect for all of these efforts and its at- faith in each other on the road ahead…. Pleasant taining results. Reading!!!!

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 3 President Sirleaf, the First Female, Elected As Chair of ECOWAS;

ECOWAS leaders attending the 49th Ordinary Session of the Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government. - Sets Key Priorities For Her One-Year Tenure

After more than 35 years, Liberia has again been elected Chair of a regional Hitting the ground running, organization, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). President Sirleaf set out key prior- ities she hopes to address during n July 12, 1979, President Senegalese President Macky Sall. her chairmanship of the sub-re- William R. Tolbert, Jr. was In her acceptance speech, Presi- gional organization, including the Oelected Chairperson of dent Sirleaf described her election consolidation of peace and secu- the Organization of African Unity as an indication of the progress and rity architecture as guided by the (OAU), now the African Union (AU), peace Liberia enjoys, which would mechanisms and other protocols; at a session held in Virginia, Libe- not have been possible without and the need to work harder, as ria, but he was assassinated nine the tremendous sacrifices and sol- Member States, to stem terrorism, months later, on April 12, 1980. idarity of the ECOWAS community. strengthen intelligence capacity At the King Fahd Palace in Dakar, She commended her Senegalese and enhance coordination with the Senegal, President Ellen Johnson counterpart, President Macky Sall, African Union, the United Nations Sirleaf was elected Chairperson of whose extraordinary leadership and other partner institutions. ECOWAS at the 49th Ordinary Ses- guided the work of the organiza- The Liberian President extend- sion of the Summit of the Authority tion in the past year; paid tribute to ed sympathy to citizens of the of Heads of State and Government the former president of the ECOW- Community victimized by armed on June 4, 2016. Incidentally, she AS Commission, Dr. Kadre Désiré attacks, and stressed the need to again broke the gender-ceiling by Ouadraogo, for the able manner ensure that there will be no expan- becoming the first female to assume in which he managed the affairs sion of terrorism in the sub-region. that role since the organization’s of the Community; and congratu- She highlighted the gratuitous at- formation in 1975. The Liberian lated his successor, His Excellency tacks in Burkina Faso, Mali, Côte leader will serve a one-year term, Marcel Alain de Souza, and team as d’Ivoire and, most recently, Niger. taking the mantle of authority from they assume their responsibilities. She added that ECOWAS must also,

4 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 nancing the Community through contributions of the Communi- ty levy by Member States in or- der to meet the operational costs of the institutions and to respond to security emergencies such as those faced by troops in Mali and Guinea Bissau. She observed that recent finan- cial difficulties imposed by global conditions have affected ECOWAS’ ability to meet commitments de- spite tremendous efforts, but she joined colleagues in commending His Excellency President Muham- madu Buhari for the relief brought by his recent expressed commit- ment to continue Nigeria’s sup- port to the community levy, but stressed that “we can do more”. The new ECOWAS Chairperson pointed out that there is space for cost saving through continued ra- tionalization and reduction in the multiple activities and high bene- fits of community institutions, for President Sirleaf, the First Female, which she commended Commis- sion president de Souza for the Elected As Chair of ECOWAS; important steps he has so far tak- en to achieve this objective. “We must institute ‘a call to action’ to finalize the ongoing review of the restructuring of Communi- ty institutions”, she underscored. through collective and The Liberian Chief Executive determined efforts, recalled the 48th Summit of the ensure that Boko Har- Authority, held in Abuja, marking am is totally defeated. the 40th Anniversary of ECOWAS, The new ECOWAS mentioning the achievements dur- Chair called for the ing the last four decades across all conclusion of negotia- sectors – including the harmoni- tions and legal actions zation of macroeconomic policies, to enhance trade in- trade integration, regional infra- tegration, but warned structure, peace and security, re- that failure to close gional institutional development, the negotiations could democracy and the rule of law. Foreign Minister and Liberia’s delegation at the 49th She stressed that as the Com- lead to differentiation ECOWAS Authority’s Summit among Member States. munity moves towards the achieve- She also called upon the the impressive success of sev- ment of such lofty goals, it faces countries which have not ratified eral ECOWAS countries in val- both challenges and opportuni- and commenced the enforcement ue addition in agriculture can be ties, such as the sharp reduction of the Common External Tariff (CET), expanded and trade integration in commodity prices and the ef- thereby deepening the potential enhanced through the accelera- fect of epidemiological outbreaks for trade and productive integra- tion of ongoing regional projects which have resulted in a decline tion in the Community, to do so. in roads, energy and railroads. in investment and growth. Beyond President Sirleaf also proposed She pointed out that during her financial difficulties, she indicat- to her colleagues the ardent need tenure, the imperative will be to ed that growth is affected by ter- to achieve transformation of Vi- holistically improve financial sta- rorism, drug and human traffick- sion 2020 through agriculture bility through existing protocols ing, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and infrastructure, adding that and mechanisms, which call for fi- and the impact of climate change.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 5 Liberia’s New Foreign Minister – - Ms. Marjon Vashti Kamara

Liberia’s has a new Foreign Minister. She is Ms. Marjon Vashti Kamara, the third female to hold the position. She fol- lows in the footsteps of Madam Dorothy Musuleng Cooper, who served from 1994- 1995, and Madame Olubanke King-Akerele, who served from 2007- 2010. She is the fifth Liberian top diplomat since President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’ took office on January 16, 2006.

Minister Kama- countries, (Angola and Tanzania), ra, in addition, brings she served as the UNHCR Repre- to her new assignment sentative, providing overall super- over 25 years of experience vision, direction, policy guidance working within the United Nations, and oversight of all UNHCR oper- inister Kamara was ap- in the areas of humanitarian affairs ations in the respective countries. Mpointed by the Libe- with emphasis on policy, strate- Minister Kamara’s service with- rian President in January 2016 gy and program development and in the Government of Liberia dates and confirmed by the Liberian hands-on management of field op- back to 1974, when she was em- Senate in February 2016. She erations. This extensive experience ployed in the Ministry of Foreign previously served as Liberia’s was acquired as a staff of the Unit- Affairs where she held several po- Ambassador and Permanent Rep- ed Nations High Commissioner for sitions over the years. These in- resentative to the United Nations. Refugees (UNHCR), where she most cluded: Director of the Bureau of Addressing the Senate’s Com- recently served as Director of the African and Asian Affairs (1976- mittee on Foreign Affairs during Regional Bureau for Africa at the or- 1977), as well as Assistant Minis- her confirmation hearing on how ganization’s headquarters in Gene- ter of Foreign Affairs and Special she foresees her new preferment, va, Switzerland (2005-2009). In this Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Ms. Kamara responded: “It is a position she was the principal ad- Affairs (1977-1980). In this latter home coming for me and I can only visor on operations in Africa, cover- position she travelled extensive- assure this Committee that I am ing 32 countries on the Continent. ly and participated in numerous qualified for this job. I have the During the Ambassador’s career international conferences, includ- academic preparation, my experi- with UNHCR, she also undertook ing sessions of the UN General ence, and I will bring to this job the field assignments in Ethiopia, Ugan- Assembly, as well as meetings of experience which I have acquired da, Angola and Tanzania covering the Organization of African Unity through over 40 years of profes- the entire spectrum of UNHCR oper- and the Non-Aligned Movement. sional work in and out of govern- ations, from emergency and stable Her appointment as Permanent ment, unwavering commitment to refugee situations, to repatriation, Representative effectively marked duty, as well as a problem-solving reintegration, resettlement and her return to Government service. approach and not just to complain.” local integration. In the latter two Liberia’s Minister of Foreign

6 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 are representative of the country and will not be “eye sores” in the capitals where they are accredit- ed. She informed the lawmakers that some of the country’s em- Liberia’s New bassies and chanceries are in bad structural state, and it is imper- ative that government endeav- Foreign Minister ors to refurbish these embassies and restore dignity. Likewise, she vowed to resolve all diplomatic – - Ms. Marjon land issues at home and abroad. The Liberian Foreign Minister Vashti Kamara urged the strengthening of rela- tionship between the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs and, by extension, the National Legisla- ture. “When we forge closer work- ing ties that do not begin and end with confirmation, we can then be positioned to effectively address not only issues relating to the rat- ification of instruments to which the country is signatory but that we can bring to bear collective wisdom in passing decisions on the broader issues involving our foreign relations,” she advised. She reminded the Commit- Foreign Minister Marjon Kamara poses with staff of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Liberia to the tee that Liberians are facing chal- United Nations as she ends her tour of duty. lenges with fully participating in some high-level international ar- rangements and leveraging their Affairs received her Master’s and livery to and relations with clients potentials, like the Peace and Se- Bachelor of Arts Degrees, 1973 and and Liberians; (2) transforming the curity Council (PSC) of the Afri- 1970, respectively, in Political Sci- Liberian Foreign Service; and (3) ef- can Union, because the Nation- ence (with emphasis on internation- fectively operationalize existing bi- al Legislature has not ratified al relations and with focus on Africa lateral and multilateral agreements some Conventions and Protocols. and ) from Western Michigan for speedy economic recovery, In view of the United Nations University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. growth and development. These Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) draw- Conscious of the timeframe and priorities will over time be reviewed down, Ms. Kamara pledged to inten- the current economic constraints to reprioritize where the need ex- sify the Ministry’s interaction with facing the country, she promised ist,” she told the Senate Committee. the Peacebuilding Commission and to build on what her predeces- Besides, Minister Kamara hopes Peacebuilding Office, which- co sors started and improve further to reach out more effectively to re- ordinates with the district peace on policies in place, when ques- gions across the world where there councils, and strategize on ways tioned by the Senate’s Commit- are concentrations of Liberians in which Liberia’s Missions abroad tee on Foreign Affairs on what she with consular needs, especially Li- can play a more active role in court- hopes to achieve during her tenure. berians needing passports, through ing technical and logistical support But what is her vision for the the dispatch of mobile passport ap- for the Justice and Security Sector. Ministry of Foreign Affairs? Ms. plication centers; review and har- Highlighting these ambitious Kamara has as her core vision the monize visas issued at all Liberian targets, Foreign Minister Kamara achievement of the country’s na- embassies to enhance accountabil- cautioned the Senate Committee tional interests in line with the ity and control; as well as review, that these can only be achieved Agenda for Transformation (AfT) and collate and produce a reference if the necessary budgetary alloca- the post-Ebola Economic Recov- manual for all laws printed into tions are made. She appealed for ery and Stabilization Plan (ESRP). handbills by the Foreign Ministry. the Committee’s continued advoca- “As government is continuity, I Minister Kamara, a former Am- cy with their colleagues for a better will start off with the top three pri- bassador herself, assured that budget for the Ministry that will em- orities: (1) improving service de- our missions around the world power it to achieve its objectives.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 7 Prime Minister welcomes President Sirleaf to his office.

Liberia Courts Israel to Strengthen Security and Agriculture

As terrorism becomes an increasing threat in the sub-region and beyond, its security forces as a means of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sought assistance from the State of having a more effective campaign Israel to complement Liberia’s security preparedness in the wake of the UN against terrorism in the region. She Mission’s drawdown and handing over security to the Liberian Government stressed that terrorism has the po- by June 30, 2016. tential of rolling back the econom- ic and developmental gains made During a courtesy call on June President Sirleaf used the occa- over the years if allowed to thrive. 9, in , Israel, President sion to extend her condolence to In response, Prime Minister Net- Sirleaf and Israeli Prime Minister the Israeli Prime Minister, Govern- anyahu called for more intelligence Benjamin Netanyahu re-echoed ment and people, including the be- sharing and the enhancement of ca- the need for the long-standing re- reaved families of the four persons pabilities to defeat terrorism, which lationship between the two coun- killed in a shooting terror attack in he said seeks to take the world tries to be converted into concrete Tel Aviv’s popular Sarona Market back to the chaos and carnage of initiatives which will benefit both the previous evening. Three others early medieval days. He said Israel nations. Besides strengthened en- were seriously hurt. She described is ready to provide such capabili- gagement in the area of security terrorism as a transnational men- ties and work with African nations cooperation, the Liberian lead- ace, whose eradication requires at bilateral and multilateral levels. er requested assistance in agri- more cooperation amongst nations. He congratulated President cultural development, advanced The Liberian President recalled Sirleaf for her election as Chairper- information and communica- attacks in the West African sub-re- son of ECOWAS, and encouraged tion, technology (ICT) and energy. gion, most recently in Côte d’Ivoire, her to use her position to provide As a result of the consensus including the wave of terror attacks the leadership required for clos- reached between the two lead- being carried out by Boko Haram in er ties between Israel and Africa; ers, a delegation of Israeli ex- Nigeria and neighboring countries, adding, “Such cooperation will be perts is expected in Liberia short- which must be tackled collectively. mutually beneficial to all parties.” ly to carry out an assessment She said ECOWAS Member States The Israeli Prime Minister prom- to determine tangible projects. were now doing more in the areas ised to use his upcoming visit to East of strategic coordination amongst Africa (Kenya, and Rwanda)

8 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 to reiterate his call for greater co- operation amongst Israel and Af- rican countries. “After East Africa, my next visit will be to West Afri- ca, Madam President. I look forward to you hosting me soon,” he said. Responding to an earlier call by President Sirleaf for more efforts by the parties involved to bring an end to the Israeli-Palestinian con- flict, Prime Minister Netanyahu said he is ready to meet with Palestini- an authorities anywhere for direct talks without any preconditions. President Sirleaf upon receipt of her Honorary Doctorate from University. President Sirleaf had earlier called on all sides to the conflict to give peace a chance, adding that this will have a positive ef- fect on global peace and security. Earlier, the Liberian President paid a visit to former Israeli Pres- ident Shimon Peres at his Center for Peace Organization headquar- ters, in the coastal city of Jaffa. There, the two Nobel Laureates Liberia Courts Israel to Strengthen Security and Agriculture

President Sirleaf being decorated at the auspicious Honorary event.

exchanged views on a wide variety of perspectives on human development, pov- erty eradication, education, entrepreneurship and hu- manitarianism. President Sirleaf and former Prime Minister Peres agreed to each designate a special en- voy to work our modalities for the Center for Peace to assist Liberia in those areas. During her visit to Israel, President Sirleaf was award- ed an Honorary Doctorate of (Honoris Causa) for her distinguished and invaluable contributions to humanity by Haifa Universi- ty, at a colorful event in Tel Aviv. She also delivered a lecture at a forum organized on behalf of the faculty and students of Haifa Universi- ty on the topic: “Quest for Unity and Transformation”. President Sirleaf in discussion with former Israeli President Shimon Peres.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 9 Foreign Minister Kamara Meets with Diplomatic Corps; Promises to Deepen Cooperation, Strengthen Ties

Cross-section of the diplomats accredited near Monrovia at the interactive dinner on March 17.

Foreign Minister Marjon V. Kamara has assured members of the diplomatic their continued support for the key community that she will utilize every opportunity to deepen cooperation priorities of the Foreign Ministry, between Liberia and their respective governments and organizations during which are: to improve service de- her stewardship as Liberia’s Foreign Minister. livery to clients, which includes the Diplomatic Corps; transform the pledge to continue and Interactive Dinner with heads country’s Foreign Service and to build upon the cordial work- of diplomatic missions, interna- effectively operationalize bilater- ing relationships that I have tional organizations and con- al and multilateral agreements for “I speedy economic recovery, growth found in place for mutually benefi- sular corps at the C. Cecil Den- cial results this year and beyond,” nis, Jr. Auditorium on March 17. and development of Liberia. she assured the foreign diplomats She used the occasion to thank The Minister acknowledged accredited near Monrovia. members of the Diplomatic Corps there were many agreements for their bilateral and multilateral signed with development part- Minister Kamara made the support towards the national prior- ners but that those agreements statement when she hosted an ities of the Government and urged have not been fully implemented.

10 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Cameroonian Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Mr. Beng ‘Yela Augustine Gang, on behalf of his colleagues, responds to a toast from Foreign Minister Kamara as the Doyan of the Diplomatic Corps, Guinean Ambassador, H. E. Abdoulaye Dore, listens attentively.

pressed happiness that Liberia had mara on behalf of his colleagues, entered the New Year without any Cameroon’s Ambassador to Liberia, new case of Ebola, which will en- H.E. Mr. Beng’Yela Augustine Gang able members of the diplomat- expressed confidence that Minister ic community to strengthen ties Kamara, who has come to the post and cooperation with the country. with vast experiences from the UN- He used the occasion to con- HCR and the UN, will work to ce- vey, on behalf of his colleagues, ment ties with members of the Dip- Foreign Minister Kamara Meets with Diplomatic Corps; warm greetings and appreciation lomatic Corps. Showering praises to President Sirleaf for her exem- on the Madam Kamara, he further plary leadership shown, especial- wished that the Minister’s tenure Promises to Deepen Cooperation, Strengthen Ties ly the manner in which she re- would afford members of the Dip- sponded to the Ebola outbreak. lomatic Corps the opportunity to He particularly hailed the Liberian benefit from her vast experience. leader for the development ini- Ambassador Gang noted that tiatives she continues to under- despite the huge challenges in She pledged to ensure that these take even in the post-Ebola era, dealing with people working both agreements are revisited and re- evidenced by the recent inaugu- at the Ministry and those at the viewed for full implementation. ration of the Gbarnga-Ganta high- diplomatic missions abroad, he She thanked the Diplomatic way project that was witnessed by was confident that Minister Kama- Corps for honoring her invitation to him and his diplomatic colleagues. ra would deliver to expectation. attend the event and at the same While hailing the appoint- According to him, during her time conveyed best wishes on be- ment of the new Minister, Am- tenure there would be what he half of President Ellen Johnson bassador Dore pledged their full- called “no danger” as a result of Sirleaf and the Liberian Government. est support and cooperation, and the kind of relationship she will In response on behalf of his col- promised to work with the new build with members of the diplo- leagues, the Doyen of the Diplo- Minister who he said has come matic community. He wished con- matic Corps, Guinean Ambassador with a wealth of experience. fidently that the opportunity given H.E. Abdoulaye Dore, congratulat- At the same time, he thanked the new Minister to serve would ed Foreign Minister Kamara, and the then Acting Foreign Min- enable all countries and interna- expressed confidence that 2016 ister, B. Elias Shoniyin, for his tional organizations represent- would be a prosperous year for Li- hard work and cooperation dur- ed in Liberia to benefit from her beria and its diplomatic relations ing his tenure amidst difficulties. vast experience as they build cor- with other countries. He also ex- Proffering a toast to Minister Ka- dial ties of friendship with Liberia.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 11 The EU Delegation that participated in the 4th EU-Liberia Political Dialogue at the C. , Jr. Auditorium on May 17. ( Inset: H. E.. Ms. Tina Intelmann, Ambassa- dor and Head of EU Delegation to Liberia) At the end of 4th EU-Liberia Political Dialogue, Parties Reinforce Political Relations

The (EU) and the Liberian Government held their 4th Political Dialogue on May 17, where the EU expressed explicit confidence in the Government’s ability to take full responsibil- ity for its own security following the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) drawdown at the end of June 2016.

oth parties recognized alogue covered a wide range of is- post-conflict history and expressed that peace and securi- sues, including the justice and secu- confidence in the National - Elec Bty are germane to gov- rity sector, human rights, the 2017 tions Commission, recounting its ernance and development, and presidential and legislative elec- recent track record of peaceful, therefore agreed to continue col- tions, the Liberian economy, devel- free and fair elections. Earlier, the laboration on justice and secu- opment strategies and investment Government provided an update rity sector reform and stressed climate. The Dialogue, the theme on the preparatory work, includ- the importance of appropriate re- of which was “Conditions for Peace ing the financial and legislative re- source allocation for that sector. and Economic Growth,” was held at quirement for smooth elections. They also shared views and con- the C. Cecil Dennis, Jr. Auditorium. The EU recalled its significant cerns on the current security sit- Commenting on the upcoming support already provided through uation in the country and further 2017 presidential and legislative the €10 million (euros) commitment affirmed their willingness to- con elections, in a joint press release for the 2015-2018 electoral cycle tinue dialogue on issues of shared after the Dialogue, the EU and Li- support project, as well as its budget concern, such as counter-terrorism. beria recognized the elections support to the Government of Li- The 4th EU-Liberia Political Di- as a key moment in the country’s beria. Both parties agreed to con-

12 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Participants at the 4th EU-Liberia Political Dialogue pose for a photograph after the meeting on May 17.

At the end of 4th EU-Liberia Political Dialogue, Parties Reinforce Political Relations

tinue dialogue on electoral issues. spond to the budget deficit, as well travel to Europe and the difficul- On human rights and the rule as those instituted to diversify the ties they encounter -- both par- of law, Liberia and the EU ac- economy and stimulate growth in ties agreed to work on the modal- knowledged the significant pro- light of the grim impact of the Eb- ities. The EU acknowledged the gress made in building and ola Virus Disease and the fall in current challenges facing Liberi- strengthening institutions and global commodity prices. The Gov- ans in securing visas, and commit- putting in place processes to pro- ernment also recounted measures ted itself to exploring all possible tect and promote human rights. taken to secure long-term devel- options to mitigate the problem. The EU urged Liberia to do opment by expanding economic The Liberian delegation was more to meet the commitments it growth and private sector invest- headed by Her Excellency Ms. has made internationally and to ment, including in the agriculture Marjon Kamara, Minister of For- the people of Liberia, particularly sector, through value-addition. eign Affairs; Her Excellency Ms. on sexual and gender-based vio- The EU welcomed these efforts Tiina Intelmann, Ambassador and lence, and expressed its hope for and reaffirmed its commitment to Head of the European Delegation the swift passage of the Domestic supporting Liberia through direct to Liberia, led the EU delegation. Violence Act, without amendment. grant budget support, advising Article 8 of the Cotonou Part- Both parties agreed on the im- that a budget support disburse- nership Agreement (between the portance of good governance as ment of up to €16.5 million has European Union and the African, well as strong anti-corruption recently been approved by Brus- Caribbean and Pacific States) - es measures, including credible in- sels. Both parties agreed to hold a tablishes a regular and compre- vestigations and prosecutions by regular comprehensive dialogue hensive political dialogue lead- the relevant Liberian authorities. on all aspects of budget support. ing to commitments on both On economic and trade issues, As to the issuance of Schen- sides. The Dialogue was formally the Government enumerated the gen visas in Liberia -- a serious launched in Liberia in June 2012. austerity measures adopted to re- problem for Liberians wanting to

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 13 Foreign Minister Kamara, 13 Others Commissioned; Commits Themselves to Implement Prioritized Actions in the Agenda for Transformation

President Sirleaf administers the Oath of Office to some members of the Cabinet commissioned on April 5.

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has cautioned commissioned officials of government that the next few months will be an interesting and challenging time; but added that she was confident in the ability of the honorees to stay focused, exhibit the competence that led to their appointments and, more importantly, their commitment to country. “Remain strong, be ready to face whatever comes,” she urged her officials.

he Liberian leader made “May God give you the strength Liberia has registered significant the comments during the to take whatever may come your improvements in its political, le- Tcommissioning and inves- way, but I know He will strengthen gal and economic systems, though titure ceremonies of 14 officials of you to be able to be successful as we there is still much to be done. She government, including Foreign Min- move along,” President Sirleaf said. furthered that despite the setbacks ister Marjon Kamara at the C. Cecil Foreign Minister Kamara, on and serious economic challeng- Dennis, Jr. Auditorium, Ministry of behalf of her colleagues, commit- es facing the country, they remain Foreign Affairs, on April 5, 2016. ted themselves to work in a con- confident in the Liberian -Presi Touching on exciting times certed manner as members of the dent’s ability to steer the country ahead, the Liberian President re- Cabinet to implement the prior- on the path to economic prosperity. minded the officials that they itized actions agreed under their Minister Kamara expressed held the last baton to take the ad- respective portfolios for the good gratitude for their selection to ministration to the finish line and of the country, noting that a strong serve this administration in vari- that everything will be depending and inclusive leadership is indis- ous capacities in the formulation on them. She indicated that they pensable to the success of the and implementation of policies wouldn’t be able to accomplish country’s development agenda. aimed at transforming the coun- everything they set out to achieve, She indicated that under Presi- try and the lives of the people. but was confident that she could dent Sirleaf’s inspiring leadership, The Liberian Foreign Minister, count on them to do their best. sound and progressive policies, who before her appointment served

14 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Foreign Minister Kamara, 13 Others Commissioned; Commits Themselves to Implement Prioritized Actions in the Agenda for Transformation

as Permanent Representative of Humane Order of African Redemp- in its development – the ongoing the Republic of Liberia to the Unit- tion with the rank of Dame Great drawdown of UNMIL and the ensu- ed Nations in New York, stressed Band and Chancellor of the Orders. ing democratic transition of power.” that government’s foreign policy Expressing personal gratitude Those commissioned included of building strong partnerships at for the honor, Ms. Kamara looked Ambassador Marjon V. Kamara, Min- the regional and international lev- back at what is an uncommon priv- ister of Foreign Affairs; Dr. Moses els has succeeded in restoring Li- ilege of returning to the Ministry Zinnah, Minister of Agriculture; Mr. beria’s image and credibility and where she launched her profes- Lenn Eugene Nagbe, Minister of In- has also helped to attract invest- sional career, in 1974, as a youth- formation, Culture and Tourism; At- ment, although global econom- ful, agile, creative, energetic and torney Neto Zarzar Lighe, Minister ic developments have negatively curious young woman. “With the of Labour; Mrs. Julia Duncan Cassell, impacted the investment climate. passage of time, there has been Minister of Gender, Children and In thanking the members of the some erosion along the edges but Social Protection; and Ambassador Diplomatic and Consular Corps for also a strengthening of determi- Lewis Garseedah Brown, II, Perma- their contribution to the whole- nation and persistence in apply- nent Representative of the Repub- some and mutually beneficial re- ing the principle that anything lic of Liberia to the United Nations. lationships developed with Libe- worth doing is worth doing well.” Also: Cllr. Robert C. Tubman, ria, Minister Kamara committed Also making remarks, the new Chairman, Board of Directors, Libe- members of the Cabinet to do their Permanent Representative of the ria Revenue Authority; Mrs. Elfrieda share in nurturing the relation- Republic of Liberia to the United Na- Stewart Tamba, Commissioner-Gen- ships with development partners. tions, Ambassador Lewis Garseed- eral, Liberia Revenue Authority; Mr. “We undertake to do even better ah Brown, II, said he was proud to Charles R. Bright and Mrs. Aletha in utilizing effectively assistance have served on President Sirleaf’s Brown Cooper, Members, Board of provided by our partners and re- Cabinet, and prouder still to repre- Directors, Liberia Revenue Author- sponding expeditiously to offers sent Liberia at the United Nations. ity; Mr. Oliver R. Rogers, II, Deputy for collaboration especially in pri- “Encouraged by the diligence Commissioner-General for Admin- ority areas identified in our Agenda with which you continue to lead istration, Liberia Revenue Author- for Transformation,” she assured. our country, I undertake this assign- ity; and Mrs. Decontee King Sack- On the charge to keep, she ad- ment fully aware of its increased ie, Deputy Commissioner-General monished her colleagues that to responsibilities as our country un- for Operations and Technical Ser- whom much is given, much is ex- dertakes two important milestones vices, Liberia Revenue Authority. pected. Committing her colleagues to the task ahead, Foreign Minister Kamara assured President Sirleaf, As Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Kamara is admitted into the Humane Order of African Re- “We, your teammates in Cabinet, demption with the rank of Dame Great Band and Chancellor of the Orders. commit to carry our individual and shared responsibilities with ded- ication; to consult more and coor- dinate better among ourselves. We remain mindful of our accountabil- ities: first to you to prove worthy of the trust reposed in us; second, to our fellow Liberians to serve with integrity, maintaining focus on na- tional interests; and third, to our Creator who has made it possible, providing the opportunities for us to render service to our country.” Besides being commissioned as Liberia’s Foreign Minister and Dean of the Cabinet, Madame Ka- mara was also admitted into the

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 15 Panelists at the Special Forum on Threat of Terrorism in the West African Region. Gabriel L. Dennis Foreign Service Institute Holds Special Forum on ‘Threat of Terrorism’

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under the auspices of the Gabriel L. Dennis Foreign Service Institute, held a special panel discussion on May 6, out of which several recommendations were advanced including: capacity building for security apparatuses in the sub-region, intelligence sharing, early warning and response mechanisms, human security development and collaboration beyond regional geographical factors but joint extensive collaboration of regional cooperation.

he forum, held under the rity professionals to discuss and topic: “The Threat of Ter- devise strategies for collabora- Trorism in the West African tion as well as find ways aimed Region and the Need for Greater at preventing and combating ter- Collaboration among West African rorism within the sub-region. Nations”, brought together stake- The panelists included: the Doy- holders including: government en of the Diplomatic Corps and officials, members of the -Diplo Ambassador of the Republic of matic and Consular Corps, facul- Guinea, His Excellency Mr. Abdou- ty members, students and secu- laye Dore; the Ambassador of the

16 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Director General, Dr. Konneh, Ambassador Wallace and Senator Taylor at the Special Forum.

Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Mr. Kodjo Asimeng Wadee; the Am- bassador of the Republic of Sier- ra Leone, His Excellency Mr. Brima Acha Kamara; and the Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, Policy Advisor at the National Security Agency, Mr. Edward Sharpe, makes his presentation. His Excellency Dr. Feni Kouakou. Others were: the Ambassador While religious extremism was military approaches alone can- of the Republic of Cameroon, His identified as a factor, most- pan not holistically combat terrorism. Excellency Mr. Beng’Yela Augus- elists’ views focused on socio-eco- Panelists highlighted region- tine Gang; the Chargé d’Affaires nomic and political variables al collaboration as a vehicle of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with some geographical factors through which efforts to -com Mr. Mohammed Tahir; and the Spe- as principle triggers of terrorism. bat terrorism can be harnessed. cial Representative of ECOWAS, His Regional cooperation was iden- The panelists’ findings showed Excellency Mr. Tunde Assisomo. tified to be collaborating at- vari that before March 13, 2016, there The Policy Advisor at the Na- ous fronts but the need for greater was no notable attack in the Mano tional Security Agency, Mr. Edward collaboration was cross-cutting. As River Union basin; domestic ter- Sharpe, also participated in the part of the collaborating framework, rorism transitioned to cross border panel discussion; while a former with key areas mentioned were and thereby accumulated transna- Information Minister, Dr. Laurence border crossing points, telecommu- tional implications; internationali- K. Bropleh, served as moderator. nication policies, small arms con- zation of terrorism is evident by ex- Panelists observed that a uni- trol, intelligence sharing and early isting terrorist groups operating in versal declaration of terrorism warning and response mechanisms. the sub-region having connections does not exist but several institu- Panelists advanced key assump- with external terrorist groups like tions like the Federal Bureau of In- tions and arguments including: ter- Al-Qaeda; and there are existing vestigation, the African Union and rorism is beyond race, religion or regimes and international frame- the United Nations have devised ethnic groups; there are economic works to combat terrorism in the viewpoints which can be accepted implications surrounding member- sub-region and the region at large. as working definitions for terrorism. ship of terrorist groups and that

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 17 South Korean Ambassador, H.E. Noh Kyu-duk, presents six SUVs to Deputy Foreign Minister Elias Shoniyin on June 23. South Korea Presents Six SUV Vehicles to Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Liberia has presented six brand new Hyundai Santa Fe SUV vehicles to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, val- of a promise made to President Ellen ued at nearly US$133,000. Johnson Sirleaf when he present- ed his Letters of Credence that his government would provide some he vehicles were pre- vehicles to the Foreign Ministry. sented to Deputy Foreign He indicated that his govern- TMinister B. Elias Shoni- ment, through the Embassy, is en- yin by the South Korean Ambas- gaged in many activities in the area sador to Liberia, His Excellency of development cooperation in Li- Noh Kyu-duk, on the grounds of beria and will continue to provide the Foreign Ministry on June 23rd. such support and assistance. The Speaking at the turn-over cer- South Korean Ambassador high- emony, Ambassador Kyu-duk said lighted a request made by the this presentation was in fulfillment president of Liberia’s Post-Grad-

18 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin (r) and South Korean Ambassador, H.E. Noh Kyu-duk (l) ,confer before the presentation ceremony on June 23.

Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin (r) receives the keys to one of the six SUVs presented to the Ministry by the South Korean Ambassador, H.E. Noh Kyu-duk.

South Korea Presents Six SUV Vehicles essary formalities are concluded. been a lot more engaging,” Depu- The South Korean Ambassador ty Minister Shoniyin emphasized. also emphasized the enhanced co- He indicated that the South Kore- operation in the area of multilater- an Ambassador’s presence is not to Ministry of Foreign Affairs al diplomacy, and extolled Liberia’s only felt at the government lev- support to his country in this regard. el, but also at the local level, cit- In response, Deputy Foreign ing the Ambassador’s contribution uate Medical Council, who dur- Minister Shoniyin thanked the to the health sector and the Uni- ing a recent visit to Seoul, plead- South Korean diplomat for his gov- versity of Liberia, among others. ed for support to the institute to ernment’s assistance to the Liberia. Minister Shoniyin informed Am- strengthen the training of resident He pointed out that Ambassador bassador Kyu-duk that the govern- doctors. Ambassador Kyu-duk com- Kyu-duk’s frequent visits to Monro- ment is working towards the ap- mitted that by 2018, South Korea via (he is resident in Abuja, Nigeria) pointment of an Honorary Consul will undertake a multi-million-dol- signifies that Liberia-South Korea to South Korea shortly; in the inter- lar project on behalf of Liberia’s relations have taken on a new di- im, one of Liberia’s missions near Post-Graduate Medical Council. mension, noting that since taking South Korea will have concurrent He also highlighted his Embas- up his assignment, the Ambassador accreditation there until govern- sy’s intervention at the Universi- continues to make his presence felt. ment can establish a full-fledged ty of Liberia, including 350 refur- “Without any prejudice, among mission there. He promised to bished computers waiting to be our non-resident missions accred- consult with Ambassador Kyu-duk exported to Liberia once the nec- ited to Liberia, South Korea has on how to proceed in this regard.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 19 Pictorial

ECOWAS Chair President Sirleaf consults with the President of the ECOWAS Com- President Sirleaf welcomes U.S. First Lady, Michelle Obama, her daughters and mission, H.E. Marcel Alain de Souza, and delegation in Monrovia. mother to Liberia.

President Sirleaf and Mrs. Michelle Obama chat in the RIA-VIP Lounge as Foreign Foreign Minister Kamara bids UN Secretary-General Ban farewell after her tour of Minister Kamara and Senator Sheriff look on. duty at the United Nations. (Photo: Courtesy of the UN).

Foreign Minister Kamara and senior Ministry officials meet with France’s Ambassa- Japan’s Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Kaoru Yoshimura, discusses with Foreign dor to Liberia, H.E. Joel Godeau. Minister Kamara during a courtesy call.

Deputy (Acting) Foreign Minister Shoniyin confers with UNECA Executive Director, China’s Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Zhang Yue, meets with Foreign Minister Kama- Mr. Carlos Lopez, during a courtesy visit on June 23. ra during a courtesy call.

20 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Pictorial

President Sirleaf poses with the new U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Christine President Sirleaf greets the UNECA Executive Director, Dr. Carlos Lopez, during an Elder, following the presentation of her Letters of Credence. official visit to Liberia.

Officials of the Liberian Government join President Sirleaf and the President of Foreign Minister Kamara signs the Book of Condolence for former German Foreign the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Marcel Alain de Souza, for a photograph. Minister, Dr. Westerwelle, at the German Embassy on March 22.

UNAIDS Country Director, Betru Woldesemayat, pays a courtesy call on Foreign Foreign Minister Kamara receives South Africa’s Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Vana- Minister Kamara. palan Moodley, at her office.

Foreign Minister Kamara and senior staff meet with the President of the ECOWAS Foreign Minister Kamara receives a Special Message from her Kenyan counterpart, Commission, H.E. Marcel Alain de Souza, and delegation. Dr. Amina Mohamed, delivered by Mr. Silas Kiragu and Mr. Abdi Korane.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 21 Liberia Establishes Diplomatic Ties with Kyrgyz Republic

Liberia’s Ambassador Thomas and the Kyrgyz Republic Ambassador, Mrs. Kanaiym, sign the Joint Declaration, establishing diplomatic relations on behalf of their respective Governments.

The Republic of Liberia and the Kyrgyz Republic have established diplomatic relations. The Joint Declaration on the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries was signed by Liberia’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency D. McKinley Thomas, and the Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic accredited to the People’s Republic of China, Her Excellency Mrs. Baktgulova Kanaiym, on behalf of their respective Governments. The ceremony took place at the Kempinski Hotel, in downtown Beijing, on June 17.

peaking during the cere- ple contact with the Government mony, Liberia’s Ambassa- of the Kyrgyz Republic. He de- Sdor Thomas underscored scribed the occasion as historic, the need for cooperation on issues and indicated that as two Mem- of international affairs, specifically ber States of the United Nations in the areas of peace and securi- they have participated on issues ty, economic cooperation, cultur- regarding peace and security. He al exchange and people-to-peo- recalled the role Liberia played

22 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Liberia Establishes Diplomatic Ties with Kyrgyz Republic

tives under the administration of noted that her Government has President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. cooperated with several African He paid tribute to Ambassa- countries on international affairs dor Kanaiym and, through her, of which Liberia is an integral part. proffered a toast to the health, Ambassador Kanaiym assured longevity and well-being of the that her Government will onwards President of the Kyrgyz Republic, work with the Government of Li- H.E Almazbek Atambaev, on be- beria on many issues that affect half and in the name of the Pres- the international community and, ident of the Republic of Liberia, in particular, Liberia-Kyrgyz Re- H.E. Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. public relations. She also request- In response, Her Excellency Am- ed Ambassador Thomas to convey bassador Kanaiym indicated that the good wishes of the President, the signing ceremony marked a Government and people of the significant turning point in Kyrgyz Kyrgyz Republic for the continued Republic - Liberia relations and the prosperity of the President, Gov- African Continent as a whole. She ernment and people of Liberia.

Liberia’s Ambassador Thomas and and the Kyrgyz Republic Ambassador, Mrs. Baktgulova Kanaiym, shake hands after they exchange the signed Joint Declaration.

in the United Nations Program on Decolonization and Liberia’s fight for the inherent rights of all peo- ple to determine their own future. Similarly, Ambassador Thom- as highlighted the role played by the Kyrgyz Republic on issues regarding world peace and se- curity as evident by its partici- pation in the United Nations Peace- keeping Operations in Liberia. Ambassador Thomas, who will now have concurrent accredita- tion, stressed that fostering good relations with the Kyrgyz Repub- lic and other countries within the comity of nations continues to be one of the cornerstones of Liberia’s foreign policy objec-

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 23 UN Peacebuilding Commission Visits Liberia; Reminds Liberians that Maintaining Peace is a Collective Effort

H.E. Mr. Macharia Kamau, and H.E. Mr. Choong Hee-Han, Chair and member of the PBC (l) ,and Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin.

The Chair of the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) says the Review of the Peacebuilding maintaining peace in Liberia is a collective effort and should not be left with Architecture, which highlight the the Government alone. “It requires the full involvement of all Liberians, entire need to look beyond post-con- communities and all the institutions and organizations represented here in flict peacebuilding to embrace Liberia,” he stressed. the broader concept of “sustain- ing peace”, which encompasses mbassador Macharia tional officials and relevant stake- activities aimed at “preventing Kamau, at the head of a holders on the outcomes of the the outbreak, escalation, continu- A14-member delegation of groundbreaking reviews of the ation and recurrence of conflict”. the PBC, made the assertion when United Nations Peace Operation, On sustaining peace, Ambassa- he addressed journalists at the end the peacebuilding and the imple- dor Kamau used the opportunity of a four-day visit to Liberia. The mentation of UN Security Council to urge Liberians to resolve all po- team was in the country to assess Resolution 1325 on women, peace litical processes within the context how the Commission can best sup- and security, especially noting of political debates and negotia- port the ongoing post-Ebola recov- the “primacy of politics”, conflict tions rather than resort to conflict. ery process and long-term peace- prevention and sustaining peace. He noted that elections next building priorities from a national The delegation also discussed year will be crucial, and successful and regional perspective including resolutions of the General Assem- elections will guarantee continued Sierra Leone, Guinea and Senegal. bly (A/RES/70/262) and the Secu- peace in the country. “If Liberia The PBC delegation briefed na- rity Council (S/RES2282 -2016) on can have successful, peaceful and

24 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 UN Peacebuilding Commission Visits Liberia; Reminds Liberians that Maintaining Peace is a Collective Effort

credible elections, I guarantee you this country will be very different in 2018 and the promise of pros- perity will be real,” he envisioned. The PBC Chairman indicat- ed that during their many meet- ings, the issue of reconciliation was high on Liberian minds, and that the people still would like to see a reconciled and inclusive so- ciety. “We have urged all the au- thorities in Liberia, including civ- il society organizations, to work harder, to remain more commit- H.E. Mr. Macharia Kamau, Chair of the UN Peace- ted to this issue of building great- building Commission addresses the media at the end Justice Minister Cherue also addresses the media. er reconciliation as this is one of a four-day visit to Liberia. of the guarantors of sustainable peace in Liberia,” he cautioned. Ambassador Kamau, who is also known to be great champions of Ambassador Kamau made the Permanent Representative of Kenya peace, and ensuring that they are point that Liberia needs to sustain to the United Nations, underscored at the center is crucially important. the peace, because it is one thing to the importance of issues related Earlier, on behalf of the Li- make peace but it is another thing to women and youth, particular- berian Government and people, to sustain the peace and move for- ly in sustaining peace in Liberia. the Justice Minister, Cllr. Freder- ward. He promised that the Com- He urged the Government to ick Cherue, expressed thanks and mission will invest in Liberia’s up- create opportunities for youth and appreciation to the Peacebuild- coming elections in an exemplary older ones who may not be able to ing Commission and delegation way, so that the country remains on go to school so that they can find for their continued support as the track for another six years of unin- themselves gainfully employed country assumes security responsi- terrupted growth and development. and less liable to be drawn into the bilities from the UN Mission at the Deputy Minister Shoniyin wel- negative activities that create inse- end of June 2016. He urged their comed the delegation to Liberia curity and undermine peace. “Mat- continued support to the coun- on behalf of Foreign Minister Mar- ters that relate to the forces that try during this transition period. jon Kamara, who was out of the undermine peace and security in a When the Peacebuilding Com- country on official business. He country are commonly tied up with mission delegation paid a courte- concurred with the Commission’s issues of youth and young peo- sy call on the Deputy Minister of Chair that their work in Liberia has ple,” he emphasized, adding that Foreign Affairs, Mr. B. Elias -Shoni been overwhelmingly successful many young people are sucked yin, at his Foreign Ministry office and the country has made signifi- up in these negative activities and on June 10, Ambassador Kamau cant gains in three core areas, in- undermine peace and create se- asserted that Liberia represents cluding governance, security and curity challenges for the country. an exemplary position to show reconciliation, particularly at the Ambassador Kamau encouraged how a country can transition from critical time when the UN Mission the gender dimensions of peace- crisis to the era of peace, stability in Liberia is transferring nation- building, recognizing that gender and development. He added that al security to the Liberian Gov- is a fundamental issue as women following the country’s nightmare ernment at the end of June 2016. tend to be the main victims when and now seeing Liberians move on He further stressed that at this there are issues of insecurity in with their lives in a sustained way, time in Liberia’s political histo- the country. He said that involving represents a remarkable achieve- ry, it is most important for the women as equal partners in gov- ment. “So far, there is no question Peacebuilding Commission to ernance and institutions through- that Liberia’s example is something continue its engagement, es- out the country means the country that we want to showcase -- how pecially as Liberia gears up for has a better chance of sustain- countries can actually move from an election in 2017 which will ing peace as women have been crisis to development,” he stated. usher in a new administration.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 25 Ambassador Brown Presents Letters of Credence to UN Secretary-General; Vows to Promote Good Image of Liberia on the Global Stage

Ambassador Brown poses with the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Ban, after presenting his Letters of Credence. (Courtesy of the UN)

Liberia’s Permanent Representative of Liberia to the United Nations, His Excellency Lewis Gar- seedah Brown II, has promised to work closely with the United Nations Secretariat, its various agencies as well as the membership to advance the cherished goals of the organization, while ensuring that Liberia’s interests are protected and promoted.

mbassador Brown made Ambassador Brown welcomed He praised the determi- the remarks when he the turning over of full security re- nation of the Liberian people Apresented his Letters sponsibilities to the Government of and the farsighted leadership of Credence to the United Na- Liberia, saying, “This is another af- of President Sirleaf toward the tions Secretary-General Ban Ki- firmation of renewed confidence in achievement of this milestone. moon during a ceremony at the Liberia’s continued progress since In a related development, United Nations headquarters in the end of its conflict in 2003.” the UN Secretary General wel- New York on Thursday, June 30. He urged the United Nations comed the full assumption by Liberia’s Permanent Represent- and the entire international com- the Government of Liberia of its ative conveyed, on behalf of Her munity to remain engaged with national security responsibili- Excellency President Ellen John- the country as it works to deep- ties from the United Nations Mis- son Sirleaf, the Government and en the progress already made. sion, in accordance with Security people of Liberia, immense grati- Receiving Ambassador Brown’s Council resolution 2239(2015). tude to the United Nations family, credentials, the UN Secretary-Gen- Mr. Ban paid tribute to the de- as well as bilateral, regional and eral, Mr. Ban, expressed appre- termination of the Government and multilateral partners for the contin- ciation about Liberia’s progress people of Liberia to work towards ued support to consolidating Libe- toward consolidating its peace, lasting peace after the end of the ria’s peace, security and stability. security and stability, noting that conflict that led to the deployment “Liberians remain grateful and because of the progress already of UNMIL in October 2003. He urged are determined to continue its ef- made, the United Nations Mis- partners to remain engaged and to forts towards consolidating the sion in Liberia (UNMIL) has been continue assisting the Government peace, security and the stabili- able to achieve the final stage of Liberia to consolidate peace. ty of their country,” he assured. of its peacekeeping mission.

26 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 ‘Climate Change and Its Effects Present Existential Threat to Global Community,’ culture production and defense Says Minister Kamara against coastal erosion. Accord- ing to Minister Kamara, the strate- gy has an implementation period of five years, with overreaching objectives of achieving the “well below 2 degree Celsius” target. She further informed world lead- ers that Liberia has also established a national adaptation program of action for climate change and a national biodiversity strategy and action plan for protection of biodi- versity, stressing, “We are working closely with the private sector and civil society, including women and youth groups, to provide education, training and heightening aware- ness to increase citizens’ participa- Foreign Minister Kamara, on behalf of Liberia, signs the Paris Agreement on Climate Change at UN Headquar- ters, New York. tion in climate change activities.” While lauding the progress be- ing made by many countries in de- Foreign Minister Marjon Kamara is warning that unless concrete steps veloping efficient renewable ener- are taken to actualize the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, the world gy, Minister Kamara said the Paris stands to suffer its devastating consequences. Agreement charts a new path for global partnership to ensure that all he said that while it is ity or we put future generations nations have a chance of producing equally important to take at risk,” she indicated, adding, and using clean, renewable energy. Sa critical look at the pros- “The one responsibility that we all She, however, noted that signif- pects of financing and develop- share as humans is to leave this icant increased financial flows and ment goals, the issue that brought planet better than we found it.” investment are required for the Member States together in New Minister Kamara, who joined greening of world economies, and York is essential for all because many world leaders in signing the therefore called on nations to rise the issue of climate change con- Paris Agreement on behalf of the to the challenge by taking urgent cerns the existence of our planet. Government of Liberia, said that and robust actions using the Paris The Liberian Foreign Minis- signing the binding and universal Agreement as an enabling platform. ter, on behalf of President El- agreement on this day signified a Addressing world leaders ear- len Johnson Sirleaf, delivered renewed hope and commitment to lier, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- this statement at the high-lev- pursue a set of policies and strat- moon said that the global com- el signing ceremony of the Par- egies aimed at addressing the ad- munity is racing against time and is Agreement on Climate Change, verse impacts of climate change. that the era of consumption with- held at United Nations Head- She added, “Liberia has already out consequence was over. “The quarters in New York on April 22. initiated actions toward the ratifi- poor and most vulnerable must Madam Kamara said there can cation of the Agreement this year.” not suffer further from a problem be no denying that climate change Citing steps being taken by the they did not create,” he urged. and its effects present an existen- Government of Liberia against The deal, which ambitiously tial threat to the global communi- climate change, Minister Kama- aims at reducing greenhouse gases ty, including Africa which is threat- ra indicated that in 2014 Liberia such as carbon dioxide, is aimed at ened by an ever advancing desert, established a Climate Change Sec- limiting global warming, by the year soil erosion on ocean fronts, as well retariat and developed a nation- 2100, to “well below 2 degrees Cel- as unpredictable rainy seasons. al low emission strategy which is sius” or (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). ‘’Ultimately, we are all on the being integrated into the coun- The signing was seen as a major same boat. We both take the dif- try’s Agenda for Transformation. step towards the realization of the ficult steps and make the future This strategy targets reduction target goal, with over 175 coun- of our planet a high global prior- in carbon emission, climate agri- tries signing on to the document.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 27 Foreign Minister Kamara Commissions 11 Foreign Service Officers; Assures of Improving Conditions of Service

Honorees listen attentively as Foreign Minister Kamara proffers a toast.

Foreign Minister Marjon V. Kamara has assured newly commissioned For- Officers contributed to all three eign Service Officers that though there are still challenges to address in the of the Ministry’s deliverables. Foreign Service, continuing efforts are under way to improve the Service by Minister Kamara indicated that reinforcing policies and regulations and improving conditions of service. the Foreign Service Officers were commissioned to make their con- tributions to improving service iberia’s top diplomat made to transform the Liberia’s Foreign delivery abroad, positively trans- the assertion when she per- Service, improve service deliv- forming Liberia’s Missions and Lformed her first commission- ery to and relations with clients, ensuring the operationalization ing of 11 Foreign Service Officers and effectively operationalize - ex of existing bilateral and multilat- at the Ministry’s C. Cecil Dennis, isting bilateral and multilateral eral engagements, with specif- Jr. Auditorium on May 20, 2016. agreements for speedy recovery, ic focus on economic diplomacy. She stressed that the Foreign growth and development; there- She admonished the newly com- Ministry’s three top priorities, till fore, commissioning qualified missioned Officers to serve at their the end of this administration, are: and competent Foreign Service respective Missions with unwaver-

28 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Foreign Minister Kamara Commissions 11 Foreign Service Officers; Assures of Improving Conditions of Service

ing that a key responsibility is to colleagues, the newly commis- ensure that public and develop- sioned Counselor at the Embas- ment diplomacy is maximized to sy of Liberia in Berlin, Federal Re- the fullest in order to improve re- public of Germany, Mr. Charles lations between Liberia and the H.V. Allen Jr., assured that they will host country, as well as for the bet- endeavor to do their best to real- terment of Liberia and its people. ize Government’s foreign policy goals and work cooperatively with On individuals visual- their respective Heads of Mission. izing life at posts abroad He asked Foreign Minister Ka- to be glamorous, Minister mara, on behalf of his colleagues, to convey to President Ellen John- Kamara admonished For- son Sirleaf their sincere gratitude eign Service Officers in- for the trust and confidence re- stead to be resilient in the posed in them, stressing that they face of current realities enter upon their new assignments and be prepared to make with even greater zeal and fervor to ensure the realization of Govern- immense sacrifices. She ment’s foreign policy objectives. urged them to be mindful Those commissioned included: that their stay and upward Mr. Martin Karpeh, Minister Coun- movement in the Service selor, Embassy of Liberia, Pretoria, will largely depend on the Republic of South Africa; Mr. Ali Sylla, Minister Counselor, Embassy value addition they bring of Liberia, Doha, State of Qatar; Mr. to the Service. Charles H.V. Allen, Jr., Counselor, Embassy of Liberia, Berlin, Federal She reminded would-be For- Republic of Germany; Mrs. Nyanda eign Service Officers that for the Finda Davis, Counselor, Embassy of Ministry to move steadily in im- Liberia, Washington, D.C., United proving the staffing complement States of America; and Mrs. Juah of the foreign Missions, adminis- Jenkins Doe, Counselor, Embassy of tration will begin a merit- based Liberia, Rabat, Kingdom of . system so that Officers are promot- Others are: Mr. Jimmy Barchue, ing commitment, integrity, honesty ed on the basis of how they per- Deputy Consul General, Consu- and dignity; cautioned that the task form rather than who they know. late of Liberia, New York, United ahead will be challenging, requir- “For too long we have been States of America; Mr. Johnnie F. ing much sacrifice; but trusted that content with mediocrity and com- Fallah, First Secretary/Consul, Em- they will make decisions always in placency, even when we have not bassy of Liberia, Brussels, King- the interest of the people of Liberia. fully achieved our desired objec- dom of Belgium; Mr. Daniel Rogers, Liberia’s former Permanent Rep- tives,” she pointed out, adding First Secretary/Consul, Embassy resentative to the United Nations that as emissaries of Liberia, it is of Liberia, Abuja, Federal Repub- reminded the commissioned Of- incumbent to strive unrelenting- lic of Nigeria; Mr. James Holmes, ficers that regardless of their- po ly for excellence wherever they First Secretary/Consul, Embas- sitions, they are all Ambassadors. find themselves, particularly as sy of Liberia, Accra, Republic of “As you set foot on foreign soil to they interact with colleagues of Ghana; Mr. Burgess T. Nimely, First commence your duty, your first other countries in the diplomatic Secretary/Consul, Embassy of Li- priority is to endeavor to project service. “It is imperative that each beria, Berlin, Federal Republic of a positive image of your country Officer contributes, at his her or Germany; and Ms. Williemena A. so as to retain the respect which her level, to achieving the goals Appleton, Second Secretary/Vice Liberia enjoys in the internation- of the Mission,” she emphasized. Consul, Embassy of Liberia, Ber- al arena,” she advised, reiterat- Responding on behalf of his lin Federal Republic of Germany.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 29 Liberia Commends UN Security Council as It Terminates Sanctions, Formally Dissolves Sanctions Committee and Panel of Experts

The Security Council unanimously adopts resolution 2288 (2016), lifting sanctions on Liberia. (Photo: Courtesy of the UN)

The Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Liberia to the United constructively engaged with the Nations has commended the United Nations Security Council for lifting the panel of experts in meeting their remaining sanctions and an arms embargo imposed on Liberia during the expectations which, according to civil crisis. him, provided the Government the opportunity to make the country a r. George Patten, speak- tive. He referred to the sanctions safe and stable place for all Libe- ing following the unani- regime as having contributed, in rians as well as foreign residents. Mmous vote by members large measure, to the stabilization Addressing some of the specific of the Council to terminate sanc- of the country and also stimulated concerns previously raised by the tions on Liberia imposed through post-conflict economic recovery. Council, including the enactment of Resolution 1521, said that while The Chargé d’Affaires informed relevant laws to regulate firearms, there have been numerous debates the Security Council that the Libe- Mr. Patten pointed out that the about the usefulness of sanctions, rian Government, despite capacity 53rd National Legislature recently targeted sanctions in the context constraints, cooperated very ef- passed the Fire Arms and Ammuni- of Liberia have been very construc- fectively with them and remained tion Control Act of 2015 which pro-

30 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Liberia Commends UN Security Council as It Terminates Sanctions, Formally Dissolves Sanctions Committee and Panel of Experts vides the legal framework for the the Government and people of Li- moon also welcomed the end of management of arms in the coun- beria for their steadfastness dur- sanctions on Liberia, calling it an- try. He also mentioned the pas- ing the period. Each assured Li- other signal of significant progress sage of the Police and Immigration beria of their country’s fullest made by Liberia and the sub-re- Acts, as complements to the Fire support as Liberia assumes full gion in maintaining stability. He Arms and Ammunition Control Act. responsibility of its own security. noted that targeted sanctions Mr. Patten expressed gratitude On May 25th, the Security measures have accompanied the to the Resolution 1521 Commit- Council unanimously adopted res- consolidation of peace and the re- tee, comprising all members of olution 2288 (2016) on Liberia, building of State institutions in Li- the Council, including the vari- voting to terminate an arms em- beria since 2003, and that these ous chairs of the Committee for bargo and dissolve the sanctions measures have been progressive- their support. He also thanked committee and panel of experts, ly adjusted as Liberia has met the the panel of experts for the nu- and acknowledging the sustained benchmarks set out by the Council. merous visits to Liberia and the progress Liberia has made after its The UN first implemented a sub-region to ensure that the civil war ended in 2003. In termi- type of arms embargo for Liberia in sanctions were implemented. nating the measures, the 15-na- 1992. The Security Council last year Mr. Patten said the termina- tion body also encouraged the Li- lifted a travel ban and asset freez- tion of the sanctions regime will berian Government to establish es on individuals deemed a dan- provide further motivation to the a framework to combat the illicit ger to Liberia‘s stability. The Unit- Government to strengthen the ca- trafficking of arms and ammunition. ed States lifted its own economic pacity of national security insti- UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- sanctions on Liberia last November. tutions as they assume their con- stitutional role of protecting lives and property and safeguarding the territorial integrity of Liberia. For his part, Mr. David Press- man, the Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs at the Permanent Mission of the United States, said that the targeted sanc- tions were crafted in support of the Liberian Peace Agreement. He said the effectiveness of the sanction regime in Liberia was a testament of how progress can be achieved when such measures are taken with a clear purpose and determination to consolidate peace. The US dip- lomat urged the Liberian Govern- ment to work closely with its peo- ple to maintain peace and stability, and assured that his Government will continue to support Liberia’s post-war reconstruction process. In separate remarks, the rep- resentatives of Japan, China and Ukraine expressed support for the George S. W. Patten, Sr., Chargé d’Affaires a.i., at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Liberia to the UN lifting of sanctions and praised addresses the Security Council. (Photo: Courtesy of the UN)

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 31 Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin Meets with AU Delegation Here To Domesticate ‘Agenda 2063’

Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin (r) and head of the AU delegation, Dr. Jallow, hold discussions during a courtesy call.

A three-member delegation of the African Union (AU) Commis- line with the AU’s Agenda 2063”. sion met with Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr. B. Elias Shoniyin, on Deputy Foreign Minister Shoni- April 21, to begin discussions on the domestication, at the nation- yin informed Dr. Jallow and his al level, of the organization’s “Agenda 2063”. team that Liberia looks forward to aligning all of the AU’s devel- iming to encourage dis- consultative and information gath- opment agenda with its national cussion among all stake- ering activities that culminated in agenda, observing that “Only Af- Aholders, “Agenda 2063” a multi-stakeholders workshop. ricans know what their true prob- is an approach to how the Con- “Agenda 2063” sets out clear lems are”. The acting Foreign Min- tinent should effectively learn milestones and targets at na- ister assured Dr. Jallow of the from the lessons of the past, build tional, regional and continental Ministry’s full cooperation in order on the progress now under way, levels, with greater emphasis at to ensure his mission’s success. and strategically exploit all pos- the national level; hence the AU Responding, the head of the AU sible opportunities available in wants to ensure that these mile- visiting delegation said “domesti- the short, medium and long term, stones and targets are embedded cation of ‘Agenda 2063’ at national to ensure positive socioeconom- in national development plans. and regional levels is critical if Af- ic transformation within the next During discussions with the rica’s transformation is to become 50 years. Simply put, “Agenda head of the AU delegation, Dr. Ah- a reality”. He also called for bet- 2063” is “a global strategy to im- mad Tijan Jallow, Deputy Foreign ter and greater solidarity among prove use of Africa’s resources Minister Shoniyin said he was glad and between African nations. for the benefit of all Africans”. that the AU team was in the coun- The African Union’s “Agenda The three-member delegation try to technically help Liberia do- 2063” was adopted at the 24th was sent by the AU Commission mesticate “Agenda 2063”. He Ordinary Session of the AU As- on a technical support mission to added, “We are glad that you have sembly of Heads of State and Member States. Its discussions with come to Liberia to help address Government, held in Addis Aba- authorities involved a series of some of the development issues in ba, Ethiopia, in January 2015.

32 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Charges d’Affaires a.i. , Mr. George Patten, and Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan, Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov. Liberia Establishes Diplomatic Ties with Kazakhstan and Belarus es of goodwill expressed by the Liberia has established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Kazakh- Representatives of Kazakhstan stan and the Republic of Belarus, with commitments by all sides to promote and Belarus on behalf of their re- and strengthen the friendship in all spheres of development as the three countries look forward to improving their interactions at the highest levels. spective Governments to the relevant authorities in Liberia. In his remarks, the Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan, H.E. he countries, in separate tions, Mr. George Patten, stressed Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov, communiqués, also un- the importance of establishing said that the establishment of for- Tdertook to consolidate relationship between Liberia and mal diplomatic ties between his friendly relations based on mutu- the two countries, and urged that country and Liberia paves the way al respect for national sovereignty, further steps be taken to concre- for a new partnership that has independence and territorial integ- tize the existing relations for the come to stay, and he considered rity, as well as non-interference in benefit of the three countries. He this as an historic moment that will the internal affairs of one another. pointed out that by establishing be recognized by the Government The communiqués further as- these relations, Liberia, Kazakh- and people of Kazakhstan. He said sert that the countries will ex- stan and Belarus are poised to that Liberia, being one of the old- ert efforts to observe diplomatic take their diplomatic interactions est Republics in sub-Saharan Afri- protocols, including those of the to a new level, and expressed op- ca, occupies an enviable position United Nations Charter, the provi- timism that the three countries will with a rich culture and history. sions of the Vienna Conventions seize the opportunity to reinforce For his part, the Permanent on Diplomatic Relations of April the spirit of cooperation in both Representative of Belarus, H.E. 18, 1961 and the Vienna Con- bilateral and multilateral realm. Andrei Dapkiunas, expressed ap- vention on Consular Relations The Liberian diplomat named preciation and hoped that the es- of April 24, 1963, respectively. education, cultural exchange and tablishment of formal diplomat- Signing on behalf of the Gov- agricultural technology as some of ic relations between his country ernment of Liberia, the Chargé the areas that could be explored and Liberia opens a new chapter d’Affaires a.i. at the Permanent Mis- by the countries concerned. He and reinforces the existing cordial sion of Liberia to the United Na- promised to convey the messag- ties between the two countries.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 33 Deputy Minister Shoniyin Urges AU Commission Delegation to Reconsider Transferring Liaison Office to Côte d’Ivoire

by the Liberia office,” he explained. Responding, Mr. Shoniyin stressed that, ordinarily, Libe- ria would have had no objection to moving the office to a sister- ly country; but considering that an extremely important transi- tion in Liberia is in progress, the country will require all of the sup- port needed to make a smooth and seamless transition possible. He said that Liberia needs the African Union’s presence here now more than any other time, especial- ly as UNMIL transfers security to its Liberian counterparts; that this transition is a big one; and plans are afoot to make every effort to The Head of Mission, AU Liaison Office in Liberia, Mr. Prosper Addo, introduces the AU Commission delegation to Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin. guide this process closely. It was important that they remain for now. The Deputy Foreign Minister re- Deputy Foreign Minister B. Elias Shoniyin is urging the African Union (AU) minded his guests that Liberia does Commission to reconsider its decision to relocate its Liaison Office from not want to give the impression to Monrovia to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. the world that it wants to continue to “be pampered”, as that will cre- e think the timing of mission’s decision to relocate its ate an impression of the country’s this decision raises Liaison Office from Monrovia to inability to take on its own respon- “Wsome concern for us Abidjan. The decision, he stated, sibility. “We can receive all the in- because we think the symbolic was necessitated by the fact that ternational support, all of the inter- presence of the African Union Li- donors supporting the AU Com- national goodwill; but, ultimately, aison Office in Liberia gives hope mission have complained about the responsibility for our country not only to Liberians but interna- lack of finances which has affect- remains ours,” he emphasized, add- tional partners, in light of the UN ed their overall contribution to the ing that the international commu- Mission’s drawdown and security Commission. As such, the need has nity can only come to buttress what transition to Liberians,” he said. arisen for the adoption of austeri- we’re doing. He said this matter ty measures at the AU Commission. does not only have to do with rep- Deputy Minister Shoniyin made Mr. Addo pointed out that the resentation, but also symbolism. these remarks when an AU Com- Commission made the decision He recognized and praised the mission delegation paid him a that it will not close the office in significant role the AU has played courtesy call at his Foreign Minis- Liberia since there’s a lot to be in Liberia’s recovery process, and try office on May 10. The Head of done here, but will give respon- also in the fight against the Ebola Mission at the African Union Li- sibility to the office in Côte d’Ivo- Virus Disease in the three Mano aison Office in Liberia, Mr. - Pros ire to remain engaged with Li- River Union countries worse af- per N.N. Addo, accompanied a beria until after the presidential fected. “If we choose to enumerate two-member AU Commission del- and legislative elections in 2017. all of the support that the AU has egation, Mr. Baizebbe Na Pahi- “Should that happen, we will given Liberia in the past years, we mi and Mr. Bright Mando, to meet only be a non-resident mission will go on and on and on,” he said. with the Deputy Foreign Minister. where there will be visits from Côte Deputy Minister Shoniyin as- Earlier, Mr. Addo informed d’Ivoire to assess the situation and sured the delegation that Libe- Shoniyin that the courtesy call was update the Commission as we do ria will transmit its opinion to the to give notification to the Liberi- for Sierra Leone, which is covered AU Commission for consideration. an Government of the AU Com-

34 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Mr. Sakib Rahman (l) presents Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin a portion of the items as his associate, Mr. Thakur, looks on. Foreign Ministry Receives Items Valued at US$70,000 from Bangladeshi Business Delegation

two-man Bangladeshi business delega- tion has donated needed items, valued at AUS$70,000, to the Ministry of Foreign Af- fairs. The items presented included one mini-bus, four motorbikes with accessories, one modern print- ing machine and 15 pieces of video conference units. The Managing Director/CEO of the Agrani Holdings Group Limited, Mr. Sakib M. Rahman, and his associate, Mr. R. B. Thakur, on a visit to Liberia to explore business opportunities for their company, said they saw the need within the Ministry and decided to make the donation. Before presenting the items to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. B. Elias Shoniyin, Mr. Rahman said that they had held separate investment discussions with authorities of various Liberian Government Ministries and other institutions, which he termed encouraging. Responding, Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin thanked the delegation for the donation. He pointed their attention toward the vast “untapped” opportuni- ty in the nation’s fisheries sector, and urged the team to encourage other entrepreneurs to venture into furni- Deputy Foreign Minister Shoniyin holds discussion with the Bangladeshi business ture or biofuel business if they can’t do it themselves. delegation.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 35 Liberia and Socialist Republic of Vietnam Establish Diplomatic Relations

important event, should however be viewed as the renewal of an old friendship - a friendship which has existed for many years between the people of Vietnam and the people of Liberia. He said the friendship also draws its strength from the strong bonds established by the many contributions of Vietnamese agriculturists, technicians and oth- ers that participated in the devel- opment of Liberia in previous years. Ambassador Thomas fully agreed with Vice Foreign Minis- ter Vu that the formalization of the relationship between the two countries as presenting new op- portunities for increased cooper- ation in various fields. “We have followed with admiration the rap- id economic development of Vi- Liberia’s Ambassador Thomas and Vietnamese Vice Foreign Minister Vu sign on behalf of their respective Governments. etnam after facing many difficul- ties and believe that Liberia can learn from your experience,” the The Government of the Republic of Liberia and the Government of the So- Liberian Ambassador to China said. cialist Republic of Vietnam have established diplomatic relations at the Am- He happily noted that agree- bassadorial level. The Joint Communiqué was signed at a formal ceremony held at the Government’s Guest House in Hanoi, on June 28. ments for the provision of assis- tance in the field of agriculture iberia’s Ambassador to the operation was clearly evident. between Vietnam and Liberia, People’s Republic of China, Vice Foreign Minister Vu fur- especially ones that provide for LHis Excellency Mr. Dudley thered that his country is prepared enhancing Liberia’s rice produc- McKinley Thomas signed the Com- to provide assistance to Liberia in tion capabilities, would be whole- muniqué on behalf of the Govern- the field of agriculture, and - spe heartedly embraced by the Gov- ment of Liberia, while the Vice Min- cifically in the production of rice, ernment and people of Liberia. ister for Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, since Vietnam is the second larg- “Rice,” he pointed out, “is a His Excellency Mr. Vu Hong Nam, est producer of rice in the world. major component of the Libe- signed on behalf of the Government The Vice Minister assured that ria’s diet and therefore, new Libe- of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. his Government will fully cooper- ria-Vietnam relations, based on Speaking at the ceremony, Vice ate and collaborate with Liberia a platform of extensive agricul- Foreign Minister Vu stressed that in advancing the many current in- ture cooperation, would indeed Vietnam was very pleased to es- ternational priorities, made all the go a long way in promoting sus- tablish diplomatic relations with more urgent, by increased globali- tainable ‘economic development’ Liberia, Africa’s oldest independ- zation and economic integration and win-win for both countries.” ent republic, making it the 52nd and praised the role played by Li- Ambassador Thomas requested African country with which Viet- berian President Ellen Johnson that the Vietnamese Vice Foreign nam has established diplomatic re- Sirleaf, as one three co-chairs of Minister kindly convey to the Pres- lations and the 172nd worldwide. the United Nations Secretary Gen- ident of the Socialist Republic of He indicated that Vietnam eral’s High-Level Panel of Eminent Viet Nam, H.E. Mr. Tran Dai Quang current exports to Liberia has a Persons on the Post-2015 Agenda. the best wishes of the President yearly turn-over of US$100 mil- Responding, Ambassador Thom- of the Republic of Liberia, H.E. lion and therefore believed that as stated that the establishment of Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, for the potential for the two coun- diplomatic relations between Libe- the continuing success and pros- tries to expand their bilateral co- ria and Vietnam, even though an perity of the Vietnamese people.

36 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 President Sirleaf Describes Outgoing Nigerian Ambassa- dor as ‘Daughter of Africa’ Admitted into Order of the Star of Africa

resident Ellen cooperation in the areas of Johnson Sirleaf mining, geology, agriculture, Phas described education, health and mo- the former Nigerian bilizing resources, among Ambassador, H.E. Chief others – all geared towards Chigozie F. Obi-Nnadoz- enhancing and accelerating ie, as an “Astute Dip- Liberia’s recovery process. lomat and Daughter of President Sirleaf also Africa” for her excep- pointed to Nigeria’s assis- tional work during her tance in providing US$2 tour of duty in Liberia. million and the deployment “When a diplomat of 200 medical practition- who had been accredit- ers to help combat the Eb- ed to Liberia is departing ola disease, the training of the country after his/her Liberian Foreign Service Of- tour of duty comes to ficers, as well as education an end, the government efforts, which have made pays special attention an impact in human ca- to the role played in ce- pacity building for Liberia. menting ties with Libe- As Grand Master of the ria,” the Liberian leader Order of Distinction, Pres- said, adding, “We have ident Sirleaf admitted Am- gathered to bid farewell bassador Obi-Nnadoz- to an astute diplomat ie into the Order of the and a daughter of Africa, Star of Africa with the Her Excellency Madam Grade of Commander. Chigozie F. Obi-Nnadoz- Earlier, Ambassador ie, Ambassador Extraor- Obi-Nnadozie was gowned dinary and Plenipo- and named Paramount tentiary of the Federal Chief Lango Lappaye for President Sirleaf and Ambassador Obi-Nnadozie share a light moment after the Republic of Nigeria, who latter was admitted into the Order of the Star of Africa. her outstanding contribu- has imparted in a most tions during her tour of positive manner rela- geria played in the fight against the duty in the Liberia. Per- tions between Liberia and Nigeria.” deadly Ebola Virus Disease in Libe- forming the gowning ceremony, The Liberian Chief Executive ria. She thanked the Ambassador the Acting Minister of Internal Af- made the remarks at a farewell re- and the people of Nigeria for their fairs, Stephen Neufville, praised ception and Investiture Ceremo- demonstration of brotherly Afri- her many contributions to Liberia. ny hosted in honor of Ambassador can solidarity extended to Liberia. For her part, Ambassador Obi-Nnadozie at the C. Cecil Den- Highlighting some of Ambas- Obi-Nnadozie said she was delight- nis, Jr. Auditorium on January 14. sador Obi-Nnadozie’s achieve- ed over the warm reception and The President stressed that Liberia ments during her tenure, the Libe- cooperation as well as hospitality remains grateful to her for upping rian leader cited the long-standing accorded her by President Sirleaf, the excellent bilateral ties, includ- friendly ties between the two the Government and people of Li- ing trade cooperation, between the countries which have enabled suc- beria over the past three years. two countries and for the role Ni- cessful technical and economic

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 37 Fallen Liberian Diplomat, Rudolf P. von Ballmoos, Laid to Rest

funeral service which was held at the First United Methodist Church on Ashmun Street on January 9, 2016. Delivering the funeral discourse, the Senior Pastor of the First United Methodist Church, Rev. Dr. Erlene P. Thompson, described the late Ambassador as a humble servant who impacted the diplomatic en- vironment meaningfully, offering his time, life and services to the ad- vancement of God’s work. Speak- ing on the theme “When the Clock Strikes”, Rev. Thompson said the clock has the propensity to strike at any time, and admonished mem- bers of the bereaved family and other mourners to get closer to God. Rev. Thompson reminded Libe- rians and those in leadership that they are called to serve humanity The remains of Ambassador von Ballmoos being interred at the Kaizer Memorial Cemetary in Brewerville. and should do so with commitment and enthusiasm, as well as to show The Government has described the late Liberian Ambassador, Rudolf P. von concern to their churches as was Ballmoos, as a credible servant and one of the country’s outstanding and the case with the fallen diplomat. foremost diplomats. The Liberian Government, in a National Gazette, paid homage to e served his country dil- Sovereign Military Order of Malta. the fallen Ambassador for his con- igently with integrity, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf tribution in strengthening diploma- “Hhonesty and commit- led an array of senior former and cy around the globe and for work- ment to the call of duty to the na- current officials, including Vice ing tirelessly to uplift his country. tion,” said Acting Foreign Minister, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Ambassador von Ballmoos, B. Elias Shoniyin, who paid tribute members of the Legislature, Justic- who passed away at the Epsom on behalf of the Government; refer- es of the Supreme Court and mem- General Hospital in Surrey, Lon- ring to von Ballmoos as one of Li- bers of the Judiciary, members of don, was laid to rest at the Kaiz- beria’s new breed of diplomats and the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, er Memorial Cemetary in Brew- one of the first fruits trained in the among others, in attendance at the erville, outside of Monrovia. new speck of global diplomacy. The late Ambassador von Ball- President Sirleaf symphatizes with the bereaved family. moos (56) began his public service career as a cadet in the Depart- ment of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from 1979-1982. Thereafter, he served in many ca- pacities, including as Ambassa- dor to Ghana during the period of conflict spanning about nine years, before being assigned as Ambas- sador to the Court of St. James and Northern Ireland with concur- rent accreditation to the Republic of Ireland, the Holy See and the

38 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016 Liberia Bids Farewell to Former Chief of Protocol, Rt. Rev. J. Adolphus During ary 1993 enrolled at the Universal Theological School of Ministry in Brooklyn, New York, an affiliate of the International Theological Sem- inary of California, where he took a Master’s in Theology, with a ma- jor in Christian Education. He was later awarded a Doctor of Philoso- phy degree in Christian Education at the Shalom Bible College and Seminary in Des Moines, Iowa, USA. After faithfully serving as a shepherd, steward, elder and watchman of the Soul Cleansing Clinic, Rev. Dr. During was, in his twentieth year of pastoral ministry, consecrated Bishop on November 18, 2007, at the church’s head- Rt. Rev. J. Adolphus During lying in state. quarters in Chocolate City, Gard- nersville, a suburb of Monrovia. Liberia has lost another astute diplomat, prelate and Ebola Prayer Warri- In recent years, Bishop Dur- or in person of the Rt. Rev. J. Adolphus During. Dr. During, who was also ing started the Liberia Institute of Senior Pastor and Co-Founder of the Soul Cleansing Clinic of Jesus Christ Protocol and Etiquette to train Li- and Chief of Protocol, Republic of Liberia, died on December 28, 2015, at the berians in how to behave in pub- Aspen Medical Clinic on 16th Street, in Sinkor, after a brief illness. He was 72 lic and in private. Many people years old. from various professions, includ- ing judicial and military person- nel and budding diplomats, ben- mbassador During, as he When, in July 1997, a constitu- efitted from this vital training. was commonly called, tional government was democrati- When the Ebola crisis hit the Ajoined the Ministry of cally elected, the President-elect, country in 2014, the Liberian Coun- Foreign Affairs in 1974 as - Dep Charles G. Taylor, invited Ambas- cil of Churches, headed by Bish- uty Chief of Protocol, having re- sador During to serve a second op Jonathan B.B. Hart, convened ceived his basic diplomatic train- time as Chief of Protocol, and prayer services every Friday at the ing at the Foreign Service Institute he became the chief liaison be- nation’s oldest church edifice, the at the then Department of State, tween the Government of Liberia Old Providence Baptist Church on where he earned a Certificate of and the foreign diplomatic mis- Broad Street, Monrovia, to pray Achievement. He then matriculat- sions accredited to Liberia and that God would deliver the nation ed to the Institute of Social Studies traveled extensively through- from the deadly virus. Bishop Dur- in The Hague, Netherlands, where out Africa, Asia and the Americas. ing coordinated these prayer meet- he obtained a Master of Arts de- Prior to his transfer to the Foreign ings and, thankfully, Liberia, though gree in International Relations and Ministry, Mr. During had worked the hardest hit, became the first of Development in 1978. He was el- in the Internal Revenue Service as the three affected Mano River Un- evated to Chief of Protocol, R.L., Junior Inspector, Senior Inspector, ion countries (Guinea, Liberia and with the rank of Ambassador Ex- Director of Sales and Excise Tax, Sierra Leone) to defeat the virus. traordinary and Plenipotentiary and Assistant Commissioner of In- The Rt. Rev. Dr. During was in 1980, and served in that ca- ternal Revenues for Income Tax. interred at his residence, fol- pacity until June 1990 following Ordained to the Gospel minis- lowing funeral rites over his re- the outbreak of Liberia’s civil war. try in 1979, Rev. During in Janu- mains on January 23, 2016.

January - June 2016 | Diplomatic Diary 39 40 Diplomatic Diary | January - June 2016