Monrovia, Liberia – Dr. Mabouba Diagne, Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, led a high-level delegation from the Republic of Senegal to Liberia to ask for the government’s backing for Mr. Amadou Hott’s nomination as African Development Bank (AfDB) president.
The Honorable Jeremiah K. Koung, the Vice President of Liberia, and Mr. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, met with the Senegalese delegation after it was cordially greeted by Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
In his remarks, Dr. Diagne emphasized the close historical and diplomatic relations between Senegal and Liberia as well as their shared commitment to promoting regional economic growth and collaboration within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
In the subregion, Senegal and Liberia have a strong and long-standing relationship. Dr. Diagne said, “It is crucial that we keep helping each other with projects that promote Africa’s growth.”
Dr. Diagne conveyed gratitude to Liberia for its hospitality and dedication to enhancing bilateral ties. “This visit strengthens Senegal and Liberia’s partnership.” We appreciate the conversations and anticipate Liberia’s backing of Mr. Hott’s candidacy, which we think would further Africa’s overall development objectives,” he continued.
Mr. Amadou Hott gave a presentation on his vision for the African Development Bank as a member of the delegation. Mr. Hott, an accomplished investment banker with a wealth of experience throughout the continent, emphasized the necessity of strengthening the AfDB’s financial capabilities to encourage investments in the private sector, which is a vital driver of economic expansion in Africa.
In order to facilitate more investment in private-sector projects, which are essential to Africa’s economic development, Mr. Hott said, “My goal is to fortify the African Development Bank’s financial base.”
He also underlined the need of using the AfDB’s resources to promote economic inclusion, draw in foreign collaborations, and showcase African investment prospects.
“With my experience, I hope to establish the AfDB as a driving force for inclusive growth and sustainable development throughout the continent, especially in low-income nations,” he continued.
Foreign Minister Nyanti reiterated Liberia’s commitment to enhancing its long-standing partnership with Senegal and furthering shared interests within Africa while speaking on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.
“Liberia and Senegal have a solid alliance based on cooperation and respect for one another. We appreciate the chance to investigate projects that would help our countries and the larger African continent,” said Foreign Minister Nyanti.
In response to the delegation’s request, Foreign Minister Nyanti praised Mr. Hott’s extraordinary credentials and vision. After talks, she promised the Senegalese delegation that Liberia will announce its decision about his candidacy.
Additionally, Foreign Minister Nyanti used the occasion to solicit Senegal’s support for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
“We respectfully ask Senegal to back Liberia’s bid for a seat on the UN Security Council in the spirit of collaboration and Pan-African unity. We can raise Africa’s voice on the international scene if we work together,” she said.
The Senegalese delegation’s visit emphasizes how crucial it is for African countries to work together in order to accomplish common development goals. Through organizations like ECOWAS and the African Union, Liberia and Senegal have continuously shown their dedication to furthering regional integration and fostering social and economic advancement.
