MONROVIA, LIBERIA-Saturday, August 15, marks another milestone in India’s journey as a sovereign nation, as dozens of Indians, foreign envoys, officials of the Liberian Government, and friends of India converged at the Monrovia City Hall to celebrate the 80th Independence Day of India.

The colorful event was marked by several activities, including the hoisting of the Indian flag, which took place during the early hours of Saturday at the Indian Embassy, at Coconut Plantation in Central Monrovia, and was later followed by an eye-catching cultural performance at the Monrovia City Hall during the indoor program.

At the event, Indian Ambassador to Liberia, Manoj Bihari Verma, recounted the great sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters and founding leaders, who secured the Country’s independence from colonial rule in 1947.

“We also remember all those who, over the years, have helped build India into a vibrant democracy, a strong economy and a responsible and respected member of the international community,” Ambassador Verma added.

The Indian Envoy also expressed sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Liberia for their friendship and longstanding partnership with India, noting that India values its close and cordial relations with Liberia.

Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma then congratulated Liberia on its service as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-27 term, and wished the Liberian Government every success in the task given to the Country at the UNSC.

He said over the past year, the partnership between Liberia and India has grown in strength and substance, congratulating Liberia on the inauguration and opening of the Embassy of Liberia in New Delhi; describing the establishment of the Resident Mission as

“A significant milestone” that will further strengthen the ties both nations share.

“The official visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mrs. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, to India on 13 August 2026 and the bilateral talks between External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister provided an opportunity to review the full spectrum of India-Liberia bilateral relations, including technology, agriculture, health, mining, energy, trade and investment, education, capacity building and people-to-people exchanges” Ambassador Verma noted.

According to him, the Liberian Foreign Minister and India’s External Affairs Minister also exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest, with both Ministers’ discussion focusing on deepening cooperation at the multilateral level to promote peace, development and a strengthened voice of the Global South.

“Capacity building remains at the heart of India’s development partnership with Liberia. Under the ITEC program, we have doubled the annual training opportunities for Liberia from 70 to 140. ICCR scholarships have also been increased to 24. This year, 20 Liberian students have received scholarships to pursue Master’s and doctoral programmes at leading institutions in India,” Ambassador Verma disclosed.

The Indian Embassy Envoy further maintained that more than 150 Liberians travelled to India last year for education, scholarships and professional training; adding that the Indian Government also provided specialized training to 30 Liberian mining officials, geologists and engineers.

He said India’s development cooperation has also been strengthened through the IBSA Fund for South-South Cooperation (India, Brazil, and South Africa), supporting the Women’s Legislative Caucus of Liberia, reflecting India-Liberia shared commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

“Our economic ties are growing as well. Bilateral trade reached around US$390 million in 2025-26, while Liberia’s exports to India more than doubled to nearly US$45 million. These figures demonstrate the significant potential for expanding and diversifying our economic partnership,” Ambassador Verma revealed.

The Indian Envoy at the same time noted that the people-to-people and cultural ties between Liberia and India remain particularly warm, emphasizing that the participation of a Liberian cultural troupe at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela in India earlier this year provided a wonderful opportunity for Indian audiences to experience Liberia’s rich cultural heritage.

He named the International Day of Yoga, Study in India, tourism cooperation and youth outreach as some of the initiatives bringing the people of Liberia and India closer.

“India and Liberia share a friendship that is built on mutual respect, shared values and a common desire for peace, prosperity and development. As we look ahead, India remains committed to further deepening this multifaceted partnership for the benefit of our two peoples,” the Indian Ambassador noted.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Verma is commending the Indian community in Liberia for its hard work, goodwill and close engagement with Liberian society.