NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Liberia and the Republic of Türkiye have taken steps to deepen bilateral relations, with plans underway to establish a Turkish embassy in Monrovia and launch direct flights between the two countries.
Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, held talks on Monday with a high-level Turkish delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr.
By: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr
The meeting focused on expanding diplomatic and economic cooperation, including the proposed opening of a Turkish embassy and the introduction of direct flights by Turkish Airlines to Roberts International Airport.
Ms Nyanti said the developments reflect growing ties between the two countries and reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships.
She referenced earlier engagements in 2025 with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, noting his government’s commitment to supporting the revitalisation and efficient operation of Roberts International Airport.
Welcoming the planned launch of Turkish Airlines flights, she said the move would boost connectivity, trade, and investment opportunities.
Speaking for the Turkish delegation, Mustafa Kemel Basa, Deputy Director General for Administrative and Financial Issues at Türkiye’s foreign ministry, expressed appreciation for the reception and reaffirmed his country’s interest in expanding economic engagement with Liberia.
He noted that Türkiye typically establishes an embassy before advancing commercial ventures, but said both processes were being fast-tracked following high-level discussions between President Erdoğan and Minister Nyanti.
Mr Basa also requested land for the construction of the Turkish embassy in Monrovia under diplomatic reciprocity arrangements, a matter Liberian authorities said would be addressed.
The delegation is expected to meet Liberian security officials, Executive Mansion representatives, and other stakeholders to finalise logistical and regulatory requirements for both the embassy and the planned airline operations.
Ms Nyanti encouraged Turkish investors to explore opportunities within the Mano River Union basin, describing Liberia as a potential regional hub for cross-border trade rather than a market limited to its population size.
She said the initiative represents a broader economic diplomacy effort aimed at delivering mutual benefits for both countries.
Mr Basa also reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s human capacity development through scholarship programmes for Liberian students.
Discussions also touched on Liberia’s plans to establish diplomatic representation in Türkiye, including an embassy in Ankara and a consulate in Istanbul. Mr Basa invited Ms Nyanti to visit Ankara for further talks on advancing these arrangements.
Türkiye, which bridges Europe, Asia, and Africa, is known for its diversified economy and active foreign policy promoting trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
