Liberia, Indonesia Explore Expanded Maritime Cooperation
The Commissioner/CEO of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr., has held strategic discussions with a delegation from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and unlocking new maritime investment opportunities. The discussions were held on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the global Headquarters of the Liberia Maritime Authority in Congo Town, Monrovia.
The four-man delegation, led by Indonesia’s Ambassador to Liberia, Mr. Bambang Suharto, met with Commissioner Lighe at LiMA’s headquarters in Congo Town. Talks centered on developments within the global maritime industry, collaboration at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and prospects for mutually beneficial investments.
Commissioner Lighe reaffirmed Liberia’s position as a major global maritime stakeholder and emphasized the country’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Indonesia in ways that advance shared interests while protecting national maritime priorities.
“As one of the world’s leading maritime administrations, Liberia remains open to meaningful partnerships that promote sustainable growth, innovation, and capacity building in the maritime sector,” Commissioner Lighe stated.
He noted that Indonesia has raised concerns regarding emerging policy issues at the IMO, particularly matters that require the collaboration of technologically advanced maritime nations to support developing countries, including those in Africa.
Highlighting Liberia’s domestic agenda, Commissioner Lighe disclosed ongoing efforts to establish a robust regional ferry transport system to facilitate the efficient movement of goods across West Africa. He observed that traders often face logistical constraints in moving goods between neighboring countries, as larger vessels are not always immediately available for short-haul regional services.
The Commissioner welcomed potential Indonesian investment in ferry services, fisheries, and other maritime ventures. Indonesia is globally recognized as the second-largest fish producer and the leading seaweed producer, expertise that could significantly contribute to Liberia’s marine and coastal development initiatives.
For his part, Ambassador Suharto expressed Indonesia’s strong interest in expanding maritime cooperation with Liberia, citing Liberia’s global leadership in shipping and the vast economic potential along its coastline.
He commended Liberia on its re-election to the IMO Council under Category “A,” describing it as a testament to the country’s influence and credibility within international maritime governance.
Ambassador Suharto further indicated that Indonesia will continue engagement with Liberia through its Honorary Consulate, headed by Mrs. Fredrica Perkins Modad, to advance discussions on investment opportunities and strengthen bilateral ties.
The meeting marks another step in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to broaden international maritime partnerships and position the country as a hub for strategic maritime investment and innovation in West Africa.
Source : Liberia Maritime Authority
