—–As President Boakai Welcomes U.S. Visa Reciprocity Decision Extending Validity to 36 Months
IPNEWS: Liberia is on the verge of assuming a major international responsibility after being nominated to chair the United Nations Sanctions Committee on Sudan and co-chair the committees on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Yemen. The announcement was made by Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, during a broadcast on state radio.
Minister Nyanti explained that the nomination is now pending approval from the UN Security Council’s five permanent members—the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom. If confirmed, Liberia will play a critical role in guiding international consultations and deliberations that shape sanctions resolutions under UN protocols, influencing decisions that impact global peace and security.
This development represents a remarkable transformation for Liberia. Once a nation under the scrutiny of global sanctions, Liberia is now stepping into a position of leadership and influence in the international arena.
The nomination also comes on the heels of Liberia’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, further solidifying its growing diplomatic clout and commitment to contributing to global governance and conflict resolution.
As Liberia prepares to take on these responsibilities, the international community will be watching closely as the country leverages its unique experience to help navigate complex sanctions frameworks, promote accountability, and support efforts toward peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
Meanwhile, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has warmly welcomed the decision of the United States Department of State to extend the validity of certain nonimmigrant visas for Liberian citizens from 12 months to 36 months—a move he described as a “clear demonstration of the strong and enduring partnership between Liberia and the United States.”
According to an official statement released by the U.S. Department of State, the new visa reciprocity policy effective immediately will extends the validity period for Liberian applicants seeking B1 (Business), B2 (Tourism), and B1/B2 (Business/Tourism Combination) visas. Qualified applicants will now receive multiple-entry visas valid for three years, with no reciprocity fee attached.
President Boakai hailed the decision as a significant milestone in U.S. Liberia relations, emphasizing that it will “ease travel, promote business and investment opportunities, and deepen people-to-people ties between our two nations.”
“This new arrangement reflects growing confidence in Liberia’s progress and global engagement,” President Boakai stated. “It opens new doors for our citizens to explore educational, cultural, and economic opportunities while strengthening our bilateral cooperation with the United States.”
The Liberian Leader reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing international partnerships that benefit the Liberian people, noting that the decision underscores his government’s diplomatic efforts to foster openness and mutual respect on the global stage.
Foreign Minister Madam Sara Beysolow Nyanti also lauded the move, pledging to continue strengthening Liberia’s diplomatic relations with the United States and other international partners. She noted that the new visa policy aligns with President Boakai’s broader foreign policy vision of expanding cooperation and creating opportunities for Liberians at home and abroad.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage with our U.S. counterparts and other governments to ensure Liberians enjoy the full benefits of international cooperation,” Minister Nyanti said.
The decision marks a notable improvement in travel facilitation between Liberia and the United States, reinforcing the historic bond shared by both nations and signaling renewed optimism for enhanced economic, educational, and cultural exchanges.
