By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority and H. E. Yin Chengwu, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Liberia
Congo Town, Monrovia – On October 18, 2024, Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), met with H. E. Yin Chengwu, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Liberia, at the Chinese Embassy near Monrovia. This meeting was a continuation of discussions surrounding the recently signed Liberia-China Maritime Agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hohai University.
The maritime agreement, finalized in September 2024 during the FOCAC summit in Beijing, aims to enhance maritime and port development between Liberia and China, fostering cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit. Key provisions include mutual recognition of tonnage certificates for vessels, ensuring that Liberian and Chinese ships will not be re-measured in each other’s ports. This agreement also guarantees most-favored nation treatment for both countries’ vessels in port operations.
Additionally, the agreement includes commitments to provide mutual aid for vessels and crews facing dangers at sea, reflecting a strong collaborative spirit.
The MOU with Hohai University focuses on maritime research and capacity building, offering scholarships to Liberian students and maritime professionals.
Ambassador Yin reaffirmed China’s commitment to the agreements, emphasizing their potential benefits for both nations.
