Monrovia, February 19, 2026 – Liberia is positioning itself for expanded global maritime influence following high-level talks between the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) and a visiting delegation from the Republic of Indonesia aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation and attracting new investment into the sector.
The meeting, held at LiMA’s global headquarters in Congo Town, brought together Commissioner/CEO Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe Sr. and a four-member Indonesian delegation led by Ambassador Bambang Suharto. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration within the international maritime framework, particularly at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and identifying areas for mutually beneficial economic engagement.
Commissioner Lighe emphasized Liberia’s standing as one of the world’s leading maritime administrations, noting that the country remains committed to partnerships that promote innovation, sustainability, and institutional capacity building. He underscored Liberia’s readiness to engage Indonesia in initiatives that align with both nations’ strategic maritime priorities.
According to Commissioner Lighe, emerging policy debates at the IMO require closer coordination between technologically advanced maritime nations and developing countries. He acknowledged Indonesia’s concerns about global regulatory developments and stressed the importance of inclusive collaboration to ensure fair representation and technical support for African maritime states.
Beyond international governance, the talks also highlighted Liberia’s domestic maritime development agenda. Commissioner Lighe disclosed ongoing efforts to establish a regional ferry transport system designed to enhance the movement of goods across West Africa. He pointed out that traders frequently face logistical bottlenecks due to the limited availability of suitable vessels for short-haul regional services.
The Commissioner signaled openness to Indonesian participation in ferry services, fisheries, and broader maritime ventures. Indonesia’s global prominence as one of the largest fish-producing nations and a leading seaweed producer presents potential avenues for knowledge transfer and investment in Liberia’s coastal and marine economy.
Ambassador Suharto welcomed the opportunity to expand maritime cooperation, describing Liberia as a key global shipping power with significant economic potential along its coastline. He commended Liberia’s recent re-election to the IMO Council under Category “A,” characterizing it as recognition of the country’s credibility and leadership within international maritime governance.
The Ambassador further indicated that Indonesia intends to sustain engagement through its Honorary Consulate in Liberia, headed by Mrs. Fredrica Perkins Modad, to advance discussions on trade, technical cooperation, and investment partnerships.
The dialogue reflects Liberia’s broader strategy to diversify maritime alliances, strengthen its role in global shipping governance, and position itself as a regional hub for maritime investment and innovation in West Africa.
