I. Political Relations
The People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Liberia established diplomatic ties on February 17, 1977. Bilateral relations were suspended in October 1989,and again in September 1997, upon Liberia’s so-called “resumption of diplomatic ties” with the Taiwan region and recognition of “two Chinas.” On October 11, 2003, Liberia reaffirmed its adherence to the One-China principle,and the two countries signed a joint communiqué to resume diplomatic ties. In September 2024, China and Liberia elevated their relations to strategic partnership.
In January 2024, Special Envoy of President Xi Jinping, Hon. Mr. Bater, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), attended the presidential inauguration of H.E. President Joseph Boakai. In June 2024, Hon. Minister of Agriculture Dr. Alexander Nuetah visited China. In September 2024, H.E. President Joseph Boakai attended the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.
II. Economic and Trade Relations
During periods of diplomatic engagement, China has assisted Liberia in constructing projects such as the Barreke Sugar Mill,the SKD Sports Complex,and the Tappita Hospital.
China-Liberia economic cooperation began in 1981, focusing on engineering contracts and labor collaboration, primarily in road and bridge construction.
According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, bilateral trade in 2023 reached USD 9.92 billion, a 32% year-on-year increase. China primarily exports ships to Liberia and imports primary raw materials such as iron ore and timber.
III. Exchanges and Cooperation in Cultural, Educational and Other Fields
China and Liberia signed the cultural cooperation agreement in 1982.
China started to offer scholarships to Liberian students since 1986. The Confucius Institute at the University of Liberia was established in September 2008.
Since July 1984, China has dispatched 16 medical teams comprising 159 members to Liberia.