Monrovia — The Embassy of India in Liberia has celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day with a vibrant display of patriotism, culture and diplomacy, bringing together Indian community members, Liberian government officials, diplomats and special guests to celebrate the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
By Patience M. Jones | [email protected]
The celebration on Saturday featured the ceremonial hoisting of the Indian national flag, cultural performances and a reception highlighting growing diplomatic, economic and people-to-people ties between India and Liberia.
The day’s first ceremony was held at the Indian Ambassador’s residence, where Ambassador Manoj B. Verma hoisted the Indian tricolor, known as the Tiranga, and delivered the message of the President of India.
The celebration later continued with cultural performances and social activities that brought Indian and Liberian guests together in an atmosphere of music, traditional performances and fellowship.
Ambassador Highlights Expanding Partnership
Addressing guests at the Independence Day reception, Ambassador Verma, on behalf of his wife, Poonam, and the Embassy of India family, expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Liberia for what he described as the two countries’ longstanding friendship and partnership.
Reflecting on India’s journey since independence from British colonial rule in 1947, Verma paid tribute to the country’s freedom fighters and founding leaders, whose sacrifices, he said, helped lay the foundation for India’s emergence as a vibrant democracy, strong economy and respected member of the international community.
He also congratulated Liberia on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term, wishing the country success in carrying out the responsibility.
According to Verma, India-Liberia relations have expanded across several areas, including technology, agriculture, health, mining, energy, trade and investment, education and capacity building.
He particularly welcomed Liberia’s recent inauguration and opening of its Embassy in New Delhi, describing the resident diplomatic mission as a significant milestone that is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations.
Nyanti’s India Visit Deepens Engagement
The Ambassador also highlighted the official visit of Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, to India on August 13, 2026.
During the visit, Nyanti held bilateral discussions with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, providing an opportunity for both countries to review their broad partnership and identify new areas of cooperation.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues and discussed strengthening cooperation at international forums in support of peace, development and a stronger voice for the Global South.
India Expands Opportunities for Liberians
Verma said capacity building remains a central component of India’s development partnership with Liberia.
Under India’s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, annual training opportunities for Liberians have been doubled from 70 to 140, while scholarships under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) have increased to 24.
He disclosed that 20 Liberian students have received scholarships this year to pursue master’s and doctoral programs at leading institutions in India.
More than 150 Liberians travelled to India last year for education, scholarships and professional training, while specialized training was also provided to 30 Liberian mining officials, geologists and engineers.
The Ambassador also highlighted development cooperation through the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Fund for South-South Cooperation, which is supporting Liberia’s Women’s Legislative Caucus.
Bilateral Trade Hits US$390 Million
Economic ties between the two countries are also expanding.
Verma disclosed that bilateral trade between India and Liberia reached approximately US$390 million in 2025–2026, while Liberia’s exports to India more than doubled to nearly US$45 million.
He said the figures demonstrate significant potential for the two countries to expand and diversify their economic partnership.
Beyond trade and investment, Verma emphasized the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
He cited the participation of a Liberian cultural troupe at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela in India earlier this year as an opportunity for Indian audiences to experience Liberia’s cultural heritage.
He also pointed to initiatives such as the International Day of Yoga, Study in India, tourism cooperation and youth outreach as avenues for bringing the people of the two countries closer.
‘A Friendship Built on Mutual Respect’
Ambassador Verma said India and Liberia share a friendship rooted in mutual respect, shared values and a common desire for peace, prosperity and development.
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening the multifaceted partnership for the benefit of both countries.
The Ambassador also commended the Indian community in Liberia for contributing to the relationship through their businesses, professional activities, goodwill and engagement with Liberian society.
The celebration concluded with appreciation to Indian and Liberian colleagues at the Embassy who helped organize the event, followed by messages of goodwill marking India’s Independence Day.
“Happy Independence Day to all Indians and friends of India. Jai Hind,” Verma said.
The celebration provided not only an occasion to mark India’s 80th Independence Day, but also a reflection of the growing diplomatic, economic, educational and cultural ties between India and Liberia.
