–Foreign Ministers Commit to Stronger Bilateral Cooperation, Back Joint Resolution on Climate, Natural Resources, and Peacebuilding
MONROVIA – Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing a joint agenda at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), with a particular focus on addressing the link between climate change, natural resources, and conflict in resource-rich countries.
The commitment was underscored on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, when Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, received her Congolese counterpart, Madame Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, and her delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia.
The high-level meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the two African nations, strengthening coordination among African members of the United Nations Security Council, and advancing common continental priorities on regional and global platforms.
Welcoming the visiting delegation, Minister Nyanti highlighted Liberia’s longstanding commitment to regional cooperation and multilateral diplomacy, while reaffirming the country’s readiness to engage constructively on key African and international issues.
She also expressed appreciation for the continued collaboration among the African members of the United Nations Security Council, commonly known as the A3, and reiterated Liberia’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities as a non-permanent member of the Council.
Joint Push on Natural Resources, Climate and Conflict
A major focus of the discussions centered on Liberia and the DRC’s shared determination to address the complex relationship between climate change, natural resource exploitation, and conflict.
Minister Nyanti recalled that during their respective campaigns for seats on the UN Security Council, Presidents Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Félix Tshisekedi committed to working together to advance a resolution addressing the impact of natural resource extraction on peace, security, and environmental sustainability in resource-endowed nations.
According to the Liberian Foreign Minister, the initiative reflects growing concerns across Africa that while the continent is rich in natural resources, many resource-producing countries continue to struggle with instability, environmental degradation, and limited economic benefits for local populations.
“Liberia stands ready and fully committed to working with the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” Minister Nyanti said. “We are determined to ensure that Africa’s natural resources become a beacon of opportunity, empowerment, and regional cooperation for the benefit of our people, especially the youth of our continent.”
The proposed resolution is expected to spotlight the challenges facing countries whose vast mineral and natural resource wealth have often fueled conflict rather than development.
DRC Invites Liberia to Key July Events
For her part, Foreign Minister Wagner expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded her delegation and outlined the objectives of her visit to Liberia.
She explained that the mission was intended to review ongoing and planned A3 initiatives while strengthening coordination among African countries serving on the Security Council.
Wagner agreed that the proposed resolution should be jointly championed by Presidents Boakai and Tshisekedi, reflecting a united African approach to issues of peace, security, and sustainable development.
The Congolese Foreign Minister disclosed that the DRC will host several high-level events in July focusing on natural resources and development, some of which will be chaired by President Tshisekedi, while others will be led by the Foreign Ministry.
She extended an invitation for Liberia to participate at the highest level possible, noting that the July engagements are expected to pave the way for Liberia’s presidency of the UN Security Council in December, when Monrovia will be expected to advance the initiative further.
Expanding Bilateral Relations
Beyond cooperation at the United Nations, both ministers discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and revitalize areas of cooperation that have remained dormant for years.
Wagner revealed plans for Liberia and the DRC to establish a Joint Commission that will review and strengthen cooperation agreements in key sectors, including mining, agriculture, health, transportation, and diplomatic representation.
Minister Nyanti, meanwhile, raised the issue of transportation and regional connectivity, urging both countries to explore opportunities for improved air links.
She referenced the historical role Liberia once played as a regional aviation hub and suggested that lessons from the era when Pan American Airways operated routes connecting Liberia to other African destinations could help inspire new opportunities for air connectivity and commerce.
Renewing a Longstanding Friendship
Foreign Minister Wagner noted that the last official visit by a Congolese Foreign Minister to Liberia occurred approximately three decades ago, describing her visit as an important step toward renewing and strengthening ties between the two countries.
She emphasized that Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo share a longstanding relationship dating back to 1966, as well as common African aspirations and experiences.
“I look forward to our exchanges and greatly appreciate the quality of our interactions,” Wagner said.
The meeting concluded with both ministers reaffirming their commitment to closer diplomatic relations, enhanced economic cooperation, and coordinated action on issues affecting Africa’s future.
The discussions also highlighted Liberia’s growing role on the international stage as a member of the United Nations Security Council and its efforts to champion African priorities in global decision-making forums.
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