By: Trokon G. Flahnma Jr.
Monrovia, Liberia – November 2025: In a historic move aimed at revitalizing bilateral ties, Ambassador Eynat Shlein, Head of MASHAV and Deputy Director-General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, visited Liberia in November 2025 to strengthen diplomatic relations between the two nations. Her visit marked a significant step towards further collaboration in various sectors, including agriculture, education, and foreign relations.
During her visit, Ambassador Shlein met with key government officials, including Liberia’s Ministers of Agriculture, Foreign Affairs, and Education, among others. These discussions focused on enhancing Israel’s long-standing partnership with Liberia, as both countries look to expand their cooperation and address critical development challenges.
MASHAV’s Role in Liberia
MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, plays a pivotal role in fostering partnerships between Israel and developing nations, including Liberia. Founded in 1958, MASHAV’s mission is to share Israel’s extensive knowledge and expertise in areas such as agriculture, water management, education, and technology with countries in need. Through capacity-building programs, technical assistance, and humanitarian aid, MASHAV seeks to empower local communities and support sustainable development.
In Liberia, MASHAV has been instrumental in several key initiatives over the years. The agency has provided expertise and training in agricultural techniques to boost local food production, offered water management solutions to improve access to clean water, and contributed to the development of Liberia’s educational sector. Ambassador Shlein’s visit reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s ongoing development efforts, with a particular emphasis on sustainable agriculture and education reform.
Liberia’s Longstanding Support for Israel
The visit also highlighted Liberia’s unwavering support for the State of Israel. Over the years, Liberia has been a consistent ally of Israel, both diplomatically and at the United Nations. In 1948, Liberia was one of the first countries to recognize Israel as a sovereign state, and it has continued to maintain strong bilateral relations since then.
Liberia’s support has been particularly evident in the international arena, where the country has repeatedly backed Israel’s right to self-determination and security. The two nations share a common vision for peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond, making their partnership a symbol of solidarity and mutual respect.
Ambassador Shlein Speaks to DNnews Liberia Report
In an exclusive interview with DNnews Liberia during her to Liberia, Ambassador Shlein opened up about the challenges Israel has faced in recent years, which had slowed the pace of diplomatic relations with Liberia. She acknowledged that while Israel’s relations with Liberia had been somewhat slow due to internal challenges, the country has now triumphed over those obstacles and is fully committed to working closely with Liberia moving forward.
“We have had challenges at home that slowed the pace of our international relations, but Israel has triumphed, and we are now in a position to move forward with renewed energy,” said Ambassador Shlein. “This is a new chapter for our relationship with Liberia, and we are excited to collaborate with our Liberian partners in a way that brings mutual benefits to both countries.”
Her comments underscored Israel’s determination to enhance its partnership with Liberia despite the setbacks, signaling a renewed focus on collaboration and growth between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Ambassador Shlein’s visit to Liberia in November 2025 reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to deepening its relationship with the West African nation. As both countries look to strengthen ties, the discussions centered on expanding collaboration in fields such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy.
In particular, Liberia’s agriculture sector stands to benefit greatly from Israel’s advanced agricultural technology, which has helped transform desert areas into thriving agricultural hubs. By sharing knowledge on irrigation systems, crop management, and sustainable farming practices, Israel aims to support Liberia’s agricultural development, enhance food security, and create job opportunities for local communities.
Additionally, Israel’s expertise in water management, education, and disaster response remains crucial to Liberia’s progress. Through training programs, technical assistance, and joint projects, MASHAV aims to bolster Liberia’s capacity to tackle its most pressing development challenges.
Looking Ahead
Ambassador Shlein’s visit signals a renewed commitment to enhancing cooperation between Israel and Liberia, with an eye toward a brighter, more prosperous future for both nations. As both countries explore new opportunities for collaboration, the bond between Israel and Liberia is set to strengthen in the years to come.
In a joint statement, Liberia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for Israel’s continued support, noting that the strategic partnership between the two countries will continue to grow, benefiting both nations and fostering peace and development across the region.
Ambassador Shlein’s visit to Liberia is not only a testament to the strength of the historical relationship between Israel and Liberia but also a symbol of the promise that lies ahead as the two nations work together to tackle global challenges.
