Yokohama, Japan – As President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. concluded his official engagements at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), he held a special meeting with members of the Liberian community residing in Japan.

The gathering, which took place on the margins of the conference, offered the Liberian diaspora in Japan the opportunity to directly engage their President, share their perspectives, and present a petition outlining concerns and proposals aimed at strengthening Liberia’s development and the welfare of Liberians abroad.

In their petition, community members highlighted issues relating to consular services, the promotion of cultural and educational exchanges, opportunities for investment back home, and greater inclusion of the diaspora in Liberia’s national agenda.

They expressed their desire to play a more active role in advancing the country’s image and development priorities globally.

President Boakai welcomed the petition, commending the Liberian community for their patriotism and continued commitment to Liberia despite living thousands of miles away.

He assured them that his administration values the contributions of Liberians in the diaspora and recognizes their vital role in national development.

“I want you to know that your voices matter. This government is committed to strengthening our engagement with Liberians abroad, ensuring that you remain an integral part of our nation’s progress,” President Boakai told the gathering.

He also pledged that the concerns raised would be reviewed and factored into ongoing national policy discussions, particularly within the framework of the ARREST Agenda.

The President encouraged the community to continue promoting Liberia’s positive image, fostering people-to-people exchanges between Liberia and Japan, and seizing opportunities to support the country’s economic and social growth.

This engagement with Liberians in Japan marks a fitting close to President Boakai’s official visit, which centered on advancing partnerships for peace, development, and investment, while also reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to the global community.