By - Partnership Aims to Expand Trade, Investment, and Cultural Exchange
By Danlette G. Washington
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed a historic Sister-State Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Republic of Liberia, establishing the first formal sister-state partnership between a U.S. state and the Republic of Liberia at the national level.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in the longstanding relationship between Maryland and Liberia, creating a framework for collaboration in trade, investment, education, agriculture, workforce development, tourism, public administration, technology, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
“Today, we channel our shared history into a forward-looking framework, one designed to create opportunity, deepen cooperation, and strengthen the bonds between our communities for generations to come,” Governor Moore said. “This agreement reflects years of relationship-building, the dedication of community leaders, and the enduring contributions of Liberian Americans.”
The partnership builds on nearly two centuries of shared history dating back to the 1830s, when Maryland established a colony along Liberia’s southeastern coast. That colony later became the independent Republic of Maryland before joining the Republic of Liberia in 1857. Today, Liberia’s Maryland County continues to reflect those historic ties.
Liberia’s Ambassador to the United States, Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh, described the agreement as “a historic new chapter” that will expand cooperation and create new opportunities for prosperity and sustainable development for both jurisdictions.
Liberian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sara Beysolow Nyanti also welcomed the agreement, saying it elevates the historic relationship between Maryland and Liberia while opening new avenues for meaningful collaboration that will benefit both nations.
The new agreement builds upon Maryland’s existing sister-state partnerships with Liberia’s Bong County and Maryland County, established in 2007, which have promoted educational, cultural, and economic exchanges for nearly two decades.
Maryland Secretary of State Susan C. Lee said the Memorandum of Understanding represents the natural evolution of those partnerships and demonstrates the state’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation through expanded collaboration across multiple sectors.
Former Maryland State Senator Michael Bowen Mitchell called the signing “a moment of pride and possibility” for Liberian Americans, noting that the agreement recognizes the deep cultural and historical connections between Maryland and Liberia while creating opportunities for future generations.
The Maryland–Liberia Memorandum of Understanding becomes part of the Maryland Sister States Program, established in 1979 to promote international partnerships through cultural understanding, educational exchange, economic development, and citizen diplomacy.
Following the signing, one of Liberian diaspora leaders, Arthur Weah-Doe celebrated and also welcomed the agreement, expressing excitement over the partnership.
“The Republic of Liberia and the State of Maryland have finalized the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation for development, thereby solidifying our partnership. Yes, I was a part, and seeing is believing! This is a historic day and an exciting opportunity for both partners. All hail Liberia, hail!” Weah-Doe said.
Support the New Americans magazine to continue to serve our community with precise news that affect the new American, immigrant and refugee community. https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=8LHFS78NRNJJY&source=url
