Monrovia, Liberia – As Liberia begins its stint on the UN Security Council and recalibrates its international ties amid shifting geopolitical tides, President Joseph N. Boakai has stated that the country’s diplomacy must now provide “measurable economic outcomes” for its people.
The Liberian leader announced a results-driven foreign policy centered on trade, investment, energy transition, digital innovation, and human capital development during a New Year’s Reception held for Diplomatic and Consular Corps members at the Executive Mansion in Monrovia on Friday, February 20, 2026.
President Boakai commended the diplomatic community for supporting Liberia’s successful election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council while speaking to ambassadors, heads of mission, development partners, and international organizations. January marked the start of Liberia’s two-year term.
“We approach this responsibility with humility and resolve, underscoring Liberia’s intent to use its seat to promote peace, stability and constructive multilateral engagement,” he added.
Traditionally organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the reception was canceled in 2025 because of what the President called “exigencies,” such as the escalation of Liberia’s campaign in the Security Council. He asserted that the fact that it is returning this year reflects his dedication to establishing consistent, high-level interaction between the diplomatic corps and the Executive Mansion.
Boakai acknowledged the challenges facing international aid, pointing out that financing pauses in several areas of development cooperation occurred throughout the last year. He commended partners for continuing to communicate and be present in Liberia during this time.
“Liberia was not abandoned, describing continued engagement by foreign missions as evidence of “genuine partnership,” he narrated.
The Liberian leader also described the current state of the world as one of “significant transition,” pointing to factors such as technology disruption, economic volatility, geopolitical competitiveness, and climate challenges as forces that are changing the international order. In response, he stated that diplomacy had to be based on respect for one another and useful collaboration that results in noticeable advancements in infrastructure, clinics, and classrooms.
Boakai reiterated Liberia’s regional commitment to further integration within West Africa and the continent, citing collaboration through the African Union, ECOWAS, and the Mano River Union as essential to stability and economic vitality. Along with acknowledging changes in the diplomatic community, he thanked departing ambassadors and heads of mission for their service and expressed gratitude for Sweden’s ongoing support of Liberia.
President Boakai, “Liberia may be a small country, but it leaves a lasting impression, highlighting what he described as the enduring bonds between Liberia and members of the international community.”
For the Boakai administration, which has made governance reforms, economic recovery, and re-engagement on the international scene its top priorities, the message comes at a critical juncture. Now that Liberia is seated at the Security Council table, the president’s comments show an attempt to balance the impact of home growth with international status. As the evening drew to a close in the Executive Mansion’s gardens, Liberia’s leader made it quite evident that collaboration must go beyond token gestures and result in mutual success.
Photo credit: Executive Mansion
