Liberia Strengthens Maritime Security Ties at High-Level Paris Meeting

Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to regional maritime security following its participation in a high-level plenary meeting held in Cercle National des Armées de Terre, de Mer et de l’Air from April 15–16, 2026.

The forum, co-chaired by Gabon and France, focused on addressing maritime threats in the Gulf of Guinea, including piracy, armed robbery at sea, and illegal fishing. The meeting builds on the 2013 initiative launched in Yaoundé, which led to the establishment of the widely recognized Yaoundé Architecture for maritime security cooperation.

Representing Liberia, the Assistant Minister for Administration at the Ministry of National Defense, Hon. Merlin Daniel Dennis, conveyed greetings on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and delivered remarks for the Minister of National Defense, Brigadier General Geraldine Janet George (Rtd), who was invited by her French counterpart, Catherine Vautrin.

During the sessions, Hon. Dennis actively contributed to discussions on maritime security, regional defense cooperation, and capacity-building for coastal states. The delegation also held bilateral and technical engagements with international partners, focusing on training, logistics, and improving maritime domain awareness.

Participants included member states of the Yaoundé Architecture such as Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, alongside G7 nations including the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Germany. Regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States and the Gulf of Guinea Commission were also represented.

Key outcomes of the meeting included a renewed commitment to strengthen regional coordination, enhance intelligence sharing, and expand joint maritime operations. Delegates also adopted a Joint Communiqué outlining strategic priorities for sustained international cooperation and technical assistance.

Liberia’s participation was described as both active and impactful, reinforcing its position as a credible partner in advancing maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. The engagement further elevated the country’s diplomatic profile and deepened its relationships with key global stakeholders.

Source : Ministry of National Defense-Liberia