Paris, France – March 7, 2025 – The newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Liberia to France, His Excellency Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay, Sr., officially presented his Letters of Credence to His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, at a solemn ceremony held at the Palais de l’Élysée in Paris.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Yorlay conveyed warm greetings from His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of Liberia, and reaffirmed the longstanding friendship between Liberia and France. He expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality accorded to him since assuming his diplomatic post on February 9, 2025.
Highlighting the historic partnership between Liberia and France, Ambassador Yorlay underscored the nations’ shared commitment to democracy, peace, and development. He acknowledged France’s instrumental support in various sectors, including education, health, trade, and security, as well as its contributions to Liberia’s economic and social progress.
“France’s support to Liberia has been invaluable, particularly during the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, where the French government provided vaccines and essential medical supplies. We also acknowledge the significant role played by the French Development Agency (AFD) in Liberia’s development efforts,” Ambassador Yorlay stated. He called for an increased French intervention in supporting Liberia’s Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism (ARREST) Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
Ambassador Yorlay emphasized President Boakai’s vision for economic diplomacy, aimed at strengthening trade and investment opportunities between Liberia and France. He appealed for France’s support in fostering bilateral trade, attracting foreign investments, and promoting cultural and educational exchanges to empower Liberia’s youth and students.
On international matters, Ambassador Yorlay sought President Macron’s support for Liberia’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), pledging Liberia’s commitment to collaborating with France on global security issues, peace, and sustainable development.
“As Liberia strives to play a more active role in global peace and security, we seek France’s support for our candidacy at the UN Security Council. We are committed to working alongside your government in addressing security challenges affecting the global community,” he noted.
Ambassador Yorlay concluded his remarks by reaffirming his dedication to enhancing the diplomatic relations between Liberia and France. He pledged to work in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation to elevate the ties between both nations to greater heights.
His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Ambassador Yorlay and expressed France’s readiness to continue supporting Liberia’s development agenda and global aspirations.
The presentation of credentials marks the official commencement of Ambassador Yorlay’s tenure in France, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening Liberia-France diplomatic relations for the mutual benefit of both nations.
