Liberia Welcomes Four Newly Designated Ambassadors as Credentials Are Presented
Executive Mansion, Monrovia - In a customary ceremonial gesture marking the official start of their tour of duty at their postings, four newly accredited ambassadors presented their Letters of Credence to His Excellency, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.
The ceremonies took place in the Parlors of the Executive Mansion on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The Ambassadors presenting their credentials were:
His Excellency Gaston Gakosso from the Republic of Congo
His Excellency Alberto Efrain Castelar Padilla from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela
His Excellency Bambang Suharto from the Republic of Indonesia
His Excellency Martin Podstavek from the Slovak Republic
As is usual in ceremonies of this nature, President Boakai warmly welcomed the Excellencies and accepted the Credentials on behalf of the Liberian Government and people.
The Liberian Leader framed the occasion as a renewed chapter in Liberia’s enduring partnerships, grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to peace, development, and international cooperation.
Presenting his credentials, Ambassador Gaston Gakosso highlighted his Government’s strong commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Republic of the Congo and Liberia, with particular emphasis on strengthening trade and commerce, promoting investment opportunities, and fostering economic self-reliance through sustained diplomatic engagement and mutually beneficial partnerships.
For his part, Ambassador Alberto Efrain Castelar Padilla, in his presentation, expressed Venezuela’s interest in expanding its partnership with Liberia by advancing cooperation across strategic sectors such as energy, agriculture, education, health, and cultural exchange, while reinstating his Government’s readiness to work closely with Liberia to promote sustainable development and strengthen diplomatic and technical collaboration for the benefit of both nations.
In presenting his Letters of Credence, Ambassador Bambang Suharto of Indonesia emphasized his Government's commitment to supporting Liberia’s development priorities through investment in key sectors, including palm oil production, infrastructure and capacity development, as well as the provision of technical assistance, training programs, and scholarship opportunities to enhance skills and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Liberia.
Presenting his credentials, Ambassador Martin Podstavek highlighted Slovak Republic’s interest in strengthening bilateral relations with Liberia, particularly in advancing cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange to promote mutual economic growth and deepen diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The President assured the ambassadors of Liberia’s full support as they carry out their duties, expressing confidence that their tenures will broaden bilateral ties and expand cooperation in trade, investment, education, and security, further strengthening the bonds of friendship between Liberia and their respective nations.
President Boakai extended his best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity to each of the nations represented by the four envoys.
