IPNEWS: Liberian President Joseph Boakai has called for a deeper partnership between Liberia and Indonesia, proposing the establishment of a Resident Embassy of Indonesia in Liberia to strengthen ties between the two nations.

Addressing the 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) in Bali, President Boakai expressed optimism about the future of Liberia’s relations with Indonesia and Africa, citing their longstanding friendship and cooperation that dates back over five decades.

The Liberian leader, accompanied by his Agricultural Minister, met with Indonesian President Joko Widodo to discuss development issues, focusing on key areas such as palm oil production, rice cultivation, and other development initiatives.

During a bilateral discussion with President Widodo, President Boakai presented his ARREST Agenda, the strategic framework guiding Liberia’s development plans for the next six years.

“Our mutual commitment to promoting peace, development, and prosperity has been the cornerstone of our bilateral ties,” President Boakai stated.

During his address, on September 2, 2024 in Indonesia, President Boakai unveiled Liberia’s ambitious development blueprint known as the ARREST Agenda, which focuses on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism as key pillars for the country’s comprehensive growth.

 He outlined how agriculture could become a cornerstone for economic empowerment and how infrastructure development, particularly in roads, would boost trade and connectivity both locally and internationally.

“The ARREST Agenda stands as a testament to our commitment to sustainable human and economic growth in Liberia, a nation where potential abounds, yet challenges persist,” President Boakai noted.

According to the Executive Mansion Press Office, President Boakai further highlighted the vast potential for cooperation in tourism, noting Liberia’s rich culture and biodiversity, which, alongside Indonesia’s similar attributes, could attract global tourists and contribute to sustainable development.

Meanwhile, as part of efforts to enhance Liberia’s international partnerships, President Boakai extended a formal invitation to Indonesian businesses, encouraging them to explore investment opportunities in Liberia.

 The Liberian Chief Executive noted that cooperation in economic, technical, and trade sectors would unlock mutual benefits, contributing positively to both regional and global economies.

President Boakai also took the opportunity to thank the Government of Indonesia for its continued support, particularly through scholarships provided to Liberian students, which he said have played a vital role in building Liberia’s human capacity.

The Indonesia-Africa Forum, taking place from September 1-3, 2024, brings together leaders from across Africa and Indonesia to discuss shared economic and development goals, with a focus on building stronger connections between the two regions.