Brussels, Belgium – May 21, 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Liberia reaffirmed its dedication to international peace, security, and inclusive development during the 3rd African Union-European Union Ministerial Summit held today in Brussels.

Representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Mr. Ibrahim Al-Bakri Nyei, delivered a compelling address at the Peace, Security and Governance Plenary.

In his remarks, Deputy Minister Nyei underscored Liberia’s continued progress as a stable democracy and beacon of peace in the region. “Liberia stands today as a testament to the transformative power of peacebuilding and multilateral cooperation,” he noted, citing two decades of uninterrupted peace and democratic governance.

Deputy Minister Nyei also highlighted Liberia’s historic and ongoing contributions to multilateralism and peace, announcing Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. “We believe our experience, perspective, and unwavering dedication to peace make us a worthy partner in addressing our contemporary global challenges,” he said.

Minister Nyei emphasized the urgent need for enhanced cooperation to address escalating insecurity in the Sahel region and broader West Africa. Mr. Nyei referenced the recent Liberia-EU Partnership Dialogue in Monrovia, where both parties recommitted to jointly tackling cross-border challenges, including drug and human trafficking and other forms of transnational crime.

He called for stronger support of African-led solutions to regional conflicts and a more equitable international response to crises across the globe. “All conflicts—whether in Africa, Europe, the Middle East or Asia—must be treated with equal urgency and empathy,” he urged.

On the topic of migration, Mr. Nyei advocated for structural changes to trade and economic relations between Africa and Europe. “Our young people are not fleeing because they don’t love their countries—they are fleeing because of limited opportunities. We must transform how we trade, ensuring Africa’s resources generate jobs and growth at home.”

Liberia’s bid for a UN Security Council seat will focus on promoting a rules-based international order, amplifying youth and women’s voices in peacebuilding, and advancing climate and environmental justice. The Deputy Minister reaffirmed Liberia’s support for reforms to the UN Security Council in alignment with the Common African Position.

“Liberia stands ready to work with all partners to promote peace, security, and sustainable development,” Mr. Nyei concluded. “Our voice, our vote, and our values are in service to global peace.”

On the sidelines of the meeting, Dr. Ibrahim Nyei, Head of Delegation, held a series of pull-aside meetings with several Foreign Ministers to reaffirm Liberia’s candidacy. Notable engagements included discussions with the Foreign Ministers of Estonia, the Netherlands, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon.

Minister Nyei was accompanied by Leon Mannie Talery, Assistant Minister for European Affairs, Senve Darlington Tehmeh Minister-Counselor and Madam Harriette M. Thomas, 1st Secretary/Consul.

Yesterday, H.E. Ambassador Levi Demmah was formally introduced to the OACPS Committee of Ambassadors by H.E. Mr. Moussa Selah Batraki, Secretary-General of the OACPS, and H.E. Sibusisiwe Mngomezulu, Chair of the Committee.

Brussels, Belgium – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Liberia to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the European Union, H.E J. Levi Demmah today met with H.E. Mr. Moussa Selah Batraki- Secretary General of The OACPS where he reaffirmed Liberia’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, development, and global cooperation.

Speaking during his visit at the OACPS headquarters in Brussels, the Ambassador extended warm greetings and pledged Liberia’s continued support for the shared values and principles of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), As a founding member of this esteemed institution.

He said , Liberia remains dedicated to the collective strength of our 79 member states, Under the Samoa Agreement, will continue to champion a more just, equitable, and sustainable global order.”

According to a dispatch from Brussels, The Ambassador highlighted Liberia’s national development strategy, the “ARREST” Agenda, which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. He emphasized the government’s focus on governance, accountability, and regional cooperation, aligning with broader goals of the OACPS.

He also underscored the importance of South-South cooperation in building resilient economies and amplifying the voice of the Global South.

In a significant announcement, the Ambassador reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to the Samoa Agreement and the Luanda Declaration, applauding the OACPS Secretariat and member states for finalizing the new partnership framework. “This Agreement offers a vital opportunity to modernize our cooperation with the EU while prioritizing climate resilience, human rights, gender equality, peace, and sustainable economic growth,” he said.

During the exchange of view, the Ambassador formally announced Liberia’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Citing Liberia’s historic role as a founding member of the UN, and its legacy in global peace and diplomacy—including the election of Angie Brooks-Randall as the first female President of the UN General Assembly and Liberia’s participation in peacekeeping missions across Africa.

“For nearly two decades, Liberia has maintained a stable democracy, with three peaceful transitions of power,” he emphasized. “Our candidacy is grounded in our commitment to representing the interests of all nations—large and small—at the highest level of international peace and security.”

For his part, Security General welcomed the Ambassador Demmah to Brussels and the OACPS and spoke about the upcoming Ministerial Meetings scheduled for May 23 and the launch of the OACPS 50TH anniversary.

In closing, the Ambassador thank Secretary for the audience and he look forward to continued collaboration with all member states and the Secretariat to advance our common objectives and ensure no country is left behind.

Ambassador Demmah was accompanied by Mr. Senve Darlington Tehmeh, Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs and currently Chargé d’affaires a. i