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Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti Secures Major Diplomatic Victory for Liberia at UNGA81 as She Signs Strategic Maritime and Port Security MOU with Cyprus Plus Scholarship Package for Liberian Youth
BY: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
NEW YORK, September 21, 2026 — The Republic of Liberia and the Republic of Cyprus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen bilateral cooperation in maritime and port security, in a major boost to Liberia’s maritime governance and security agenda on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
The agreement was signed Monday in New York following a bilateral meeting between Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, and the Cypriot delegation.
Under the MOU, both countries agreed to enhance collaboration in the areas of maritime safety, port security, regulatory compliance, and information sharing, drawing on Cyprus’s experience as a leading European Union maritime hub and Liberia’s position as the world’s second-largest ship registry.
As part of the package, Cyprus has also offered scholarships for Liberians in maritime and port security studies.
Speaking with Journalists in New York, Foreign Minister Nyanti welcomed the agreement, stating that it directly supports Liberia’s core security priorities, strengthens the country’s capacity to secure its coastline and ports, and aligns with Liberia’s broader diplomatic engagement strategy to diversify strategic partnerships beyond traditional allies.
“This MOU is not just about security — it is about capacity, opportunity for our youth, and positioning Liberia as a credible maritime partner in the Atlantic and beyond,” Minister Nyanti said.
The Cyprus agreement is the latest in a series of maritime-focused diplomatic wins for Liberia at UNGA81, following high-level roundtables with the United States and Panama, as Liberia leverages its Security Council tenure to advance economic diplomacy in the blue economy.