By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba, H.E. Dr. Indira Lopez Arguelles, has
paid a courtesy visit to Liberia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Wilmot Paye,
in Monrovia.
The meeting, which took place on Friday, marked the first official
interaction between the two officials and is expected to lay the foundation for
deeper cooperation between both nations.
Minister Paye welcomed the Ambassador warmly and emphasized the significance
of the visit, noting that it represents Cuba’s growing interest in
strengthening ties with Liberia.
He highlighted the shifting global landscape, where countries are
increasingly embracing a multipolar world order that values sovereignty and
mutual respect.
“The world is moving towards a system that recognizes each nation’s right to
make independent decisions based on its own realities,” Minister Paye remarked.
“Every nation is an expert of its own
situation. No one should tell us how to live, and we [too] will not tell other
people how to live.”
He reiterated Liberia’s openness to meaningful international partnerships,
particularly in trade and development, but cautioned against relationships that
carry exploitative conditions.
“Liberia has something vital to offer
the world. We are ready to engage, but not under terms that compromise our
dignity or sovereignty,” Paye stressed.
Ambassador Arguelles, for her part, expressed Cuba’s desire to work closely
with Liberia, particularly in support of the country’s energy and development
goals. She conveyed her government’s commitment to building partnerships
grounded in mutual respect and shared progress.
As Liberia looks to diversify its energy sector and bolster sustainable
development, the visit by the Cuban envoy could mark the beginning of
collaborative initiatives between Monrovia and Havana in areas such as
renewable energy, mining technology, and technical training.
The two officials ended their meeting on a hopeful note, pledging to explore
avenues for future cooperation that benefit both nations.
