The Republic of Liberia and its people still have the backings of the United States of America, its longstanding traditional ally and partner, according to Chargé d’Affaires Joseph Zadrozny, saying the U.S.-Liberia relationship remains “strong and built to endure” as both countries look toward the future.
The official independence celebration is on Saturday, July 4, 2026. But in most cases, embassies around the world are allowed to proceed with advance celebrations.
Speaking at the Executive Pavilion during events marking the 250th Independence of the U.S., thanked sponsors including Firestone Liberia, LISCR, International Bank Liberia, Jeety Rubber LLC, Cape Hotel, and Coca-Cola’s G5+ Breweries for making the event possible.
While also welcoming Speaker Richard Koon, government officials, diplomats, sponsors, and guests to the Semiquincentennial celebration, he reflected on America’s founding ideals of equality and freedom from tyranny.
Mr. Zadrozny said those principles remain as important today as in 1776.
He linked America’s “living story” to Liberia’s own, noting that Liberia’s history is also shaped by citizens at home and in the diaspora who are committed to “Mama Liberia.”
He highlighted growing diplomatic ties, pointing to Liberia’s seat on the UN Security Council this year as evidence of its “growing diplomatic influence as a democratic leader.”
He also cited a new U.S.-Liberia “Ship Rider” agreement allowing officials from both countries to embark on each other’s vessels to combat illicit fishing and narcotics trafficking at sea.
New MCC Compact, Health Investment on the Table
Looking ahead, Zadrozny said Liberia is working with the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation to develop a potential second compact.
If approved, it could unlock substantial grant funding for electricity access, power sector reform, and mining development. The first MCC compact invested about $257 million in electricity infrastructure and roads.
On health, he announced that under the America First Global Health strategy, the U.S. is poised to provide over $150 million to Liberia over the next five years for HIV/AIDS, malaria, maternal and child health, and global health security. Liberia is expected to increase its own health spending by nearly $51 million to take on more responsibility.
Zadrozny said the question for the next 50 years is not what the two countries inherited, but “what did we build in the years that followed” as America heads toward its tricentennial in 2076.
“Distinguished guests, we cherish the friendship and strategic connection between the United States and Liberia,” he said.
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