Liberia Gains Climate Insights from China BRI Seminar | News

A Liberian delegation that recently participated in a two-week seminar in China on Climate Change and Sustainable Development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has returned home with what participants describe as a valuable and transformative learning experience.

The Forestry Development Authority (FDA) technical team, headed by Deputy Managing Director for Commercial and Technical Services, Madam Gertrude Wede Korvayan Nyaley, formed part of the national delegation that attended the program in Beijing, People’s Republic of China.

The seminar, which ran from May 8–21, 2026, focused on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation as well as Sustainable Development for BRI countries, with particular emphasis on China’s development vision, strategies, and future prospects.

The Liberian delegation also included representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP). The forum was organized by the National Academy of Forest and Grassland Administration (NAFGA) with support from the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.

The training brought together participants from eight Belt and Road Initiative countries, including Liberia, Argentina, The Gambia, Malaysia, Maldives, Namibia, Sierra Leone, and the Solomon Islands.

Speaking on behalf of Liberia, FDA Deputy Managing Director for Commercial and Technical Services, Madam Nyaley, said one of the most inspiring aspects of the program was observing how China integrates development with innovation.

“From modern infrastructure to environmental initiatives, we saw firsthand how planning and commitment can transform a nation. It challenged us to think bigger about what is possible for Liberia,” she said.

Madam Nyaley further noted that the experience had strengthened the delegation’s resolve to apply the knowledge gained toward national development efforts and climate resilience strategies.

“The experience in China has given us a renewed commitment to use the knowledge, exposure, and inspiration gained in China to contribute positively to Liberia’s development and climate resilience,” she stated.

She also extended appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia to the People’s Republic of China, through NAFGA, for sponsoring and hosting the seminar.

“For and on behalf of the People and Government of the Republic of Liberia, we want to use this medium to sincerely appreciate the People’s Republic of China through NAFGA, the organizing entity of the just-ended seminar, for the sponsorship and accommodation in China. We also, in a distinct honor, want to appreciate the staff and management of NAFGA for the total display of professionalism and non-discrimination during our stay in Beijing, China. We have gained enough theoretical and practical knowledge and experience from China. We look forward to more of these opportunities as Liberia and China foster their bilateral cooperation,” she added.

The delegation is expected to share insights from the seminar with relevant government institutions as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Liberia’s climate change response and sustainable development agenda.