BARBADOS, Liberia forge historic diplomatic relationship

ACCRA, Ghana February 29, 2024 -  In a groundbreaking move symbolizing Prime Minister Mia Mottley's commitment to enhancing Africa-Caribbean relations, Barbados and the Republic of Liberia have officially established diplomatic ties. 

This significant event took place in Accra, Ghana, showcasing the mutual dedication of both nations to strengthening South-South cooperation. 

The ceremony was led by Liberia’s Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti and Barbados’s Madam Juliette Babb-Riley, Head of Mission of the High Commission of Barbados.

This historic agreement, resulting from extensive discussions between the Liberian Embassy in Accra and the Barbados High Commission, represents a step forward in Prime Minister Mottley's vision for a connected African and Caribbean region. 

Minister Nyanti has been instrumental in these discussions, focusing on collaborative opportunities in education, tourism, cultural heritage, legal exchange, marine resource management, trade, and green energy development.

The collaborative efforts aim to leverage Barbados's expertise in workforce development, tourism, and cultural event organization to benefit Liberia. 

Plans include training programs in hospitality and tourism, cultural exchange initiatives, and strategies to enhance Liberia's blue economy and green energy sector.

Reflecting on the historical connections that bind the two nations, Minister Nyanti highlighted the contributions of Barbadians to Liberian society since the 19th century. 

The collaboration also extends to commemorating shared history through cultural events, including an annual lecture series in honor of Louis Arthur Grimes and initiatives to celebrate the rich heritage linking Barbados and Liberia.

The establishment of diplomatic relations also aligns with broader discussions on enhancing Liberia's international partnerships, as demonstrated by Minister Nyanti's engagement with Norway's Ambassador to Liberia, emphasizing Liberia's dedication to fostering global ties.

The bond between Liberia and Barbados is deeply rooted, with two former Presidents of Liberia tracing their ancestry to Barbados – Arthur Barclay and his nephew, Edwin Barclay. This connection dates back to President Daniel Bashiel Warner’s invitation, issued 159 years ago, urging individuals of African descent from the West Indies to settle in Liberia.

This rich historical tapestry sets the stage for a momentous heritage event slated for May 6-16 in Barbados, where descendants of the original families who migrated to Liberia in 1865 will converge, and aims to foster political, cultural, developmental, and business cooperation between the two nations.

President Arthur Barclay, born in Barbados in 1854, played a pivotal role in reconciling conflicts between mulattoes and black emigrants during his presidency from 1904 to 1912. His tenure witnessed constitutional amendments granting citizenship to tribal peoples and the introduction of ‘indirect rule’ systems.

The genesis of the heritage event traces back to 2021 when Prime Minister Mottley expressed her aspiration to Ambassador Lorenzo Llewellyn Witherspoon during a meeting in Bridgetown. This vision evolved into the Sankofa Pilgrimage, aiming to reunite Liberian Barbadians with their ancestral homeland and vice versa.

Ambassador Witherspoon, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience, spearheaded efforts to realize this vision, culminating in collaborations with global teams and discussions with President Sirleaf. The event, featuring President Sirleaf as a prominent figure, serves to strengthen the historical ties between Liberia and Barbados.

The initiative is a testament to Prime Minister Mottley's advocacy for closer CARICOM-Africa collaboration, highlighted during the CARICOM-Africa Summit. 

By fostering direct flights, media exchanges, and joint efforts on global challenges, this new diplomatic relationship underlines a shared vision for a united and prosperous future for Africa and the Caribbean.