The recently concluded Liberia Inward Mission to Barbados presented a unique opportunity to broaden Barbadians’ knowledge of Liberia and to explore the possibility of investment, cultural co-operation and knowledge exchange between the two countries. A Business Roundtable Discussion Forum, hosted by Invest Barbados, further strengthened ties between the two nations. From all accounts, this event which took place at the Hilton Barbados Resort on May 10, was hailed a success. More than 150 attendees were present including local businesspersons, representatives of various government agencies and the Liberian delegates.
The Business Roundtable Discussion was one of many activities planned during the historic visit of over 250 Liberians, who arrived in Barbados for just over a week in recognition of the 159th Anniversary of the Migration of 346 Barbadians to the West African country. Invest Barbados engaged the Liberian delegates while on their visit to explore potential investment opportunities between the two countries with a focus on forging closer partnerships.
Speakers at the event included Senator the Honourable Chad Blackman, Minister, Ministry of Economic Affairs & Investment, Barbados; Kaye-Anne Greenidge, CEO, Invest Barbados; Ambassador Lorenzo Witherspoon, retired Liberian ambassador; Hon. Jeff B. Blibo, Chairman, National Investment Commission, Liberia; Paul Inniss, Senior Vice President, Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry and O. Natty B. Davis, President, Liberia Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
In his keynote address, Minister Blackman emphasised the strategic importance of strengthening economic ties with African nations, particularly Liberia.
“Liberia and Barbados both have dynamic and growing economies with an immense potential for our nations to increase bilateral trade and investment flows. As both countries explore new markets and forge strategic partnerships, opportunities for economic prosperity and job creation on both sides will abound.”
Panel discussions on the opportunities for doing business with Liberia and Barbados were presented by key representatives from the two countries. In addition to the insightful presentations, the mission included an exhibit area where local and Liberian businesspersons were able showcase and offer for sale their diverse range of products. Fruitful B2B meetings were also organised, focusing on various sectors such as financial services, ICT, manufacturing, real estate, renewable energy and tourism, among others. Participants were eager to explore the possible business and investment opportunities arising from the meetings.
The Liberia Inward Mission is just one of the many initiatives designed to strengthen ties, foster bilateral trade and investment among African nations, Barbados and the wider Caribbean.