Boakai Meets ArcelorMittal Executive Chairman -Talks Centered on Strengthening Economic Ties, Youth Development

MONROVIA – One of the marked outcomes of President Boakai’s recent visit to Rome, Italy, is the fruitful meeting the Liberian delegation held with the Executive Chairman of Liberia’s biggest concessionaire, ArcelorMittal. According to a dispatch, the conversation focused on crucial transformative programs, including but not limited to strengthening economic ties and making intentional investment in youth development. The Analyst reports.

It has been reported by a news release from Rome, Italy, that President Joseph Boakai held a crucial discussion with the Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal Liberia, Mr. Lakshmi N. Mittal, at which time the company’s boss reaffirmed long-standing commitment to Liberia’s economic development.

Mr. Mittal highlighted the shared vision of the company and the government for the country’s future, stating ArcelorMittal will remain one of Liberia’s most significant industrial partners.

ArcelorMittal, which has been operating in Liberia for the past 17 years, has played a vital role in the country’s industrial growth, employing over 7,000 Liberians in its mining and other operations.

Mr. Mittal also emphasized the company’s deep connection to Liberia and its strategic importance in Liberia’s economic landscape.

“ArcelorMittal’s activities are not only essential to the country’s current economic framework, but they are pivotal for the future vision of Liberia,” Mittal stated.

The meeting of Liberian delegation headed by President followed Mr. Mittal’s visit to Liberia earlier this year where he met with the president in Monrovia.

During that visit, Mittal reinforced ArcelorMittal’s commitment to expanding its operations in Liberia and continuing its investment in the country’s infrastructure, particularly in the mining sector.

The company has also been dedicated to creating opportunities for Liberians by providing training programs, scholarships, and supporting local businesses.

Mr. Mittal reiterated that ArcelorMittal’s investment in Liberia is a long-term partnership aimed at fostering sustainable development.

In response to Mr. Mittal’s remarks, President Boakai acknowledged the significant contributions of foreign investors like ArcelorMittal, not only to the economy but to Liberia’s broader development goals.

He praised ArcelorMittal for its role as a model investor, calling current investors “ambassadors” for others considering doing business in Liberia.

“Investors like ArcelorMittal are not only contributing to our economy but are helping to shape the future of our nation by supporting the training and development of young Liberians,” Boakai stated.

A key point of discussion in the meeting was the need to prepare Liberia’s youth for future leadership roles.

President Boakai emphasized that investing in youth training and development is crucial to Liberia’s long-term growth, and foreign partners like ArcelorMittal play an essential role in this effort.

“Our youth need the skills and training to step into leadership and make meaningful contributions to national development. This is an area where ArcelorMittal’s involvement is invaluable,” Boakai added.

ArcelorMittal has been actively engaged in youth development initiatives through its technical and vocational training programs, aimed at equipping young Liberians with the skills needed for careers in the mining industry and other sectors. These efforts have helped to create a skilled workforce, positioning Liberia for future economic growth.

The meeting concluded with discussing parties sharing mutual commitment to building on the strong foundation of cooperation between ArcelorMittal and the Liberian government.

Both parties expressed optimism for the future, with plans to explore further investment opportunities that will contribute to Liberia’s sustainable development.

As ArcelorMittal continues its operations and expansion in Liberia, its role as a key investor and development partner is expected to remain central to the country’s economic progress.

With ongoing support from the government, the company’s initiatives in training, employment, and community engagement will continue to shape the future of Liberia’s industrial sector.

This recent meeting marks another milestone in the ongoing partnership between ArcelorMittal and Liberia, signaling a bright future for the country’s economic growth and youth empowerment.