The Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has clarified that the recent United States visa restrictions affecting Liberia are not targeted at the Government of Liberia, contrary to claims linking the measures to governance failures.
Minister Piah explained that the current restrictions apply strictly to immigrant visa categories and do not affect visitors, students, or individuals who are not seeking permanent stay in the United States. According to him, the policy should not be interpreted as a sanction against Liberia or its officials.
He further emphasized that officials of the current administration will not face targeted sanctions, unlike actions taken against some officials during the previous government. The minister said the administration remains confident in its international standing and engagement with development partners.
Addressing concerns over Liberia’s eligibility for international support, Minister Piah assured that the government is making progress on critical engagements that were previously unattained, including securing key development compacts.
As evidence of continued cooperation and confidence from international partners, he pointed to the presence of a visiting delegation from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) currently in Liberia. He noted that the delegation’s visit demonstrates that bilateral relations and reform processes remain on track.
The minister maintained that government operations and international engagements are proceeding normally, urging the public not to politicize the visa policy or misrepresent its intent.
