One of the fellows representing Liberia at the Irish council for international students Matthias Yeanay has paid a courtesy visit on the invitation of the Minister of State of International development and Diaspora Neale Richmond.
Matthias said the historic meeting with the Irish senior government official was welcoming as both parties shared common perspectives on issues of bilateral engagement between Ireland and Liberia.
Making Liberia’s case during the pivotal meeting, Matthias Yeanay emphasize the importance of Ireland’s support for Liberia’s development initiatives, particularly in the areas of energy, domestic resource mobilization, governance and accountability, as well as supporting CSOs and Anti-Graft institutions.
Speaking further, Mr. Yeanay highlighted the crucial role of youth empowerment, peacebuilding, transitional justice and Decentralization in shaping Liberia’s future.
“One key point I raised was the gap in funding due to the USAID funding cuts, which have had a notable impact on both CSOs and the government, affecting our economy and development priorities”, he added.
According to Mr. Yeanay , the very fruitful and rewarding discussion so significant to Liberia will eventually see Mr. Richmond set to be the first high-level Irish diplomat to visit Liberia.
He stated that Minister Neale Richmond’s upcoming visit to Liberia promises to be a milestone in strengthening the diplomatic ties between Liberia and Ireland.
As part of his planned visit to Liberia, Minister Richmond is expected to meet with the Liberian government, CSOs, and other key stakeholders to discuss ways to deepen such pivotal relationship.
The InfoQuest boss stressed that his advocacy over the period has not only been limited to mere criticism but has consistently sought to contribute positively to the growth and well-being of Liberia.
He used the ocassion to expressed heartfelt gratitude for the ongoing support from the resilient and compassionate people of Ireland through the Irish Embassy in Liberia, Irish Aid, and ICOS for affording he and his colleague the opportunity to pursue higher education and work towards a better future for both nations.
The result oriented advocate Yeanay is currently pursuing his masters in Ireland under the Ireland fellows program 2024/ 2025 respectively.
