PARIS — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. arrived in Paris early Tuesday, October 29th morning to cheers from Liberians living in France and elsewhere in Europe, who gathered at the airport with flags and phone cameras to greet him at the start of his state visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron.
“It’s a great honor for all of us,” said Diallo, a youth leader with the Liberian Federation in Paris. “We organized ourselves when we got the news two weeks ago, and we’re excited to welcome him and wish him a successful meeting.”
Many in the crowd said they came to put a human face on the ties Boakai hopes to deepen during his trip. Mohamed Sidibe, who has lived in Paris for nearly 25 years, called it “my first time to shake his hand,” adding: “If you ask me to grade him at this particular time, we’re getting 100%. I’m in Liberia every year, and I’m seeing changes—especially in Lofa County, where I’m from.”
Others pointed to Boakai’s anti‑corruption stance and diplomacy. “Fighting corruption is not easy, but he’s trying his best,” said Dave Fayot, a Liberian who has lived in France “for a couple of years. As a diaspora, I see what he’s doing back home.”
From Italy to Paris to say “welcome” Among those at the airport was Tengbeh N. K. Dukuly, a Liberian community leader who traveled from Italy to greet the president. “I’m delighted to be here to welcome our president—our ‘daddy’—to France,” she said, noting she had met Boakai on a previous visit to Italy. “Though we’re abroad, I follow the news and the development challenges, and I appreciate the work he’s doing.”
Asata Kamara Bangura, who has lived in France for nearly four decades and chairs the Liberian Federation Community, called the moment “history” for the diaspora. “Since Mr. President came to power, we have heard a lot of good things,” she said. “I hope it will continue.” She said the community plans to deliver a formal message to Boakai later this week.
Why France Invited Boakai
France’s ambassador to Liberia, Isabelle Le Guellec, said the visit carries a strong economic focus and will update the bilateral framework between the two countries.
“This visit has a big economic touch, with many French companies and groups interested in investment opportunities in Liberia,” she said, noting a French business club in Monrovia with 12 member companies. “It’s an opportunity to tighten economic ties.”
Le Guellec said the two governments intend to sign a new general agreement for cooperation to replace one dating back to 1979, during a visit by President William R. Tolbert, aligning with Boakai’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. “Since 1979, a lot happened, so we need to update this,” she said, adding the accord is expected to be signed by Liberia’s foreign minister during the visit.
A Bid to Put Liberia on the Map
Several community leaders said Boakai’s outreach abroad matters for Liberians in Europe. “I feel proud because of the effort he’s putting in for our well‑being and for the country to be recognized,” said Sekou L. Dorley, vice president of the Federation of All Liberians in France. “He’s putting us on the globe and encouraging Liberians to be one.”
Laye Bamba, chair of an elders’ committee within the community, said he returned from Liberia two weeks ago and sees momentum. “I appreciate what the president is doing,” he said. “We’re moving to achieve our goals.”
Sport and Youth Links on the Agenda
Alioune Kebe, Liberia’s sports ambassador and a former player in France, said he is using the visit to connect the delegation with French clubs. “In a short time, we want some of our children to sign contracts here and help build our nation and national team,” he said, adding that meetings with club officials are planned.
Boakai is expected to receive full state honors and hold talks with President Macron at the Élysée Palace, along with engagements with lawmakers and French business leaders. For the Liberians who lined the arrivals hall, the first order of business was simple. “He’s welcome,” Bangura said, smiling. “We’re happy to see him.”
