Liberia Goes to Japan World Expo 2025 -Delegation Promises Superb Performance at the World Stage

By: George C Flomo 

MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia, through the Liberia Crusaders for Peace and in partnership with several ministries and agencies, is expected to showcase the nation’s cultural wealth, investment potential, and global relevance at the upcoming Japan World Expo.

The official announcement of Liberia’s participation was made at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) by Ambassador Julie Endee, Executive Director of the Liberia Crusaders for Peace and Commissioner General for Expo Liberia.

Amb. Endee, addressing journalists, expressed gratitude to MICAT, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other government institutions for their support.

“This Expo is not just about singing and dancing; it’s about promoting Liberia’s development agenda, connecting lives, and saving lives,” she averred.

She clarified that the Expo is organized under the global Bureau of International Expositions (BIE), where Liberia holds a seat on the steering committee among 26 member nations.

The thematic focus of the Japan Expo aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Liberia’s presentation will center on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ARREST Agenda: Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism with an added focus on Gender Equality.

“Because of my deep passion for women’s advancement, we created the Women’s Pavilion to highlight women’s political participation, empowerment, and inclusion,” Amb. Endee said.

In addition to gender, trade and investment were added as key components, with the involvement of the Ministry of Commerce, National Investment Commission (NIC), and Liberia Business Association.

Parade, Cultural Performances & Global Partnerships

Liberia has been granted a rare privilege to hold a national cultural parade on August 26—an opportunity not extended to many other nations.

Activities will run from August 24–28, with Liberian culture on full display. Notably, 70 Japanese students are currently rehearsing Liberia’s national anthem to be sung at the ceremony, symbolizing global cultural harmony.

A delegation of Liberians with special needs, including cultural ambassadors Seema Wifer and Gladys Kota, are already in Japan, engaging in cultural exchanges in Yao City.

Delegation and Logistics

So far, 176 visa applications have been processed for Liberia’s delegation, including 83 diaspora participants.

The Japanese Expo Association has requested each participating nation to send 35 official delegates, including the head of delegation, security personnel, and key government representatives.

The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs will cover the cost of travel and accommodation for the head of delegation and their entourage, while the Liberian government will handle logistics for the remaining officials.

Only 15 delegates will be allowed to attend the official Expo luncheon hosted by the Japanese government after the national day celebration.

Investment and Cultural Diplomacy

Liberia remains the only country collaborating with key Japanese entities such as Yao City, Nakamoto City, and the Kinki Bureau of Economic Trade and Industry. These partnerships are opening doors for future economic and cultural cooperation.

On August 26, the Joseph Nyuma Boakai Hall of Fame will be launched by the Hollywood Awards Committee at the Grand Prince Hotel in Osaka. The initiative, backed by media teams from Hollywood, will also present the “English Speaking King of Africa” award to global honorees.

“Liberia is shining. This Expo is a moment for our country to show the world who we are. When you don’t say ‘I am,’ who will say you are?” said Endee in her closing statement.

She urged businesses to come prepared with proposals for the investment forum, emphasizing Liberia’s commitment to cultural and economic diplomacy on the global stage.