MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The Governments of Japan and Liberia have formalized an exchange of notes to extend the Japan Freeway Road corridor between the Freeport of Monrovia and the Gabriel Tucker Bridge on Johnson Street.

Deputy Foreign Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Dr. Ibrahim Nyei described the signing ceremony as a significant milestone in the diplomatic, economic, cultural, and development cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Nyei expressed hope that the momentum will be maintained as both nations build solid bridges in their bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership on global issues.

He hailed Japan for its support and partnership over the years, which has been instrumental in revamping the economy and rebuilding infrastructure in the two decades since Liberia’s civil war ended.

Minister Nyei also highlighted Japan’s KR Food Assistance, which, over the past decade, has been monetized to finance social and economic interventions in various Liberian communities.

The Deputy Foreign Minister reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with Japan.

Meanwhile, Japan’s Ambassador to Liberia Yoshimoto Hiroshi said:” The road, now known as the Japan Freeway, has a history that Japan is proud to be associated with.”

Yoshimoto recalled Japan’s support in 2013 and 2016 for the reconstruction of the first and second phases of what was then called the Somalia Drive.

The Japanese Ambassador to Liberia said:” The new extension project will rehabilitate a 1.9 Km section of the Japan Freeway, easing congestion and improving connectivity for commuters.

Ambassador Yoshimoto said the extension of the Japan Freeway aligns with Japan’s broader infrastructure agenda, saying that the move demonstrates its commitment to Africa’s development by prioritizing infrastructure that directly benefits local communities.

He added that through development cooperation, Japan supports sustainable and inclusive infrastructure projects that enhance economic growth, improve livelihoods, and strengthen resilience.

The ceremony was attended by Deputy Public Works Minister for Administration Samuka Dunnoh, Assistant Foreign Minister for Afro-Asian Affairs Charlyne Taylor, and JICA-Ghana Country Representative Suzuki Momoko, among others.

By: Frederick Teegwiah, Jr.