During his recent visit to Italy, President Joseph Boakai held a crucial meeting with Lakshmi N. Mittal, Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal, one of Liberia’s most significant industrial partners. The meeting served as a reaffirmation of ArcelorMittal’s long-standing commitment to Liberia’s economic development and highlighted the shared vision of the company and the government for the country’s future.
ArcelorMittal, which has been operating in Liberia for the past seventeen years, has played a vital role in the country’s industrial growth, employing over 7,000 Liberians in its mining and other operations. During the meeting, Mittal emphasized the company’s deep connection to Liberia and its strategic importance in Liberia’s economic landscape. “ArcelorMittal’s activities are not only essential to the country’s current economic framework, but they are pivotal for the future vision of Liberia,” Mittal stated.
This meeting follows Mittal’s visit to Liberia earlier this year, where he met with President Boakai in Monrovia. During that visit, Mittal reinforced ArcelorMittal’s commitment to expanding its operation in Liberia and continuing its investment in the country’s infrastructure, particularly in the mining sector. The company has also been dedicated to creating opportunities for Liberians by providing training programs, scholarships, and supporting local businesses. Mittal reiterated that ArcelorMittal’s investment in Liberia is a long-term partnership aimed at fostering sustainable development.
In response to Mittal’s remarks, President Boakai acknowledged the significant contributions of foreign investors like ArcelorMittal, not only to the economy but to Liberia’s broader development goals. He praised ArcelorMittal for its role as a model investor, calling current investors “ambassadors” for others considering doing business in Liberia. “Investors like ArcelorMittal are not only contributing to our economy but are helping to shape the future of our nation by supporting the training and development of young Liberians,” Boakai stated.
A key point of discussion in the meeting was the need to prepare Liberia’s youth for future leadership roles. President Boakai emphasized that investing in youth training and development is crucial to Liberia’s long-term growth, and foreign partners like ArcelorMittal play an essential role in this effort. “Our youth need the skills and training to step into leadership and make meaningful contributions to national development. This is an area where ArcelorMittal’s involvement is invaluable,” Boakai added.
ArcelorMittal has been actively engaged in youth development initiatives through its technical and vocational training programs, aimed at equipping young Liberians with the skills needed for careers in the mining industry and other sectors. These efforts have helped to create a skilled workforce, positioning Liberia for future economic growth.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to building on the strong foundation of cooperation between ArcelorMittal and the Liberian government. Both parties expressed optimism for the future, with plans to explore further investment opportunities that will contribute to Liberia’s sustainable development.
As ArcelorMittal continues its operations and expansion in Liberia, its role as a key investor and development partner is expected to remain central to the country’s economic progress. With on-going support from the government, the company’s initiatives in training, employment, and community engagement will continue to shape the future of Liberia’s industrial sector.
Last week’s meeting marks another milestone in the on-going partnership between ArcelorMittal and Liberia, signaling a bright future for the country’s economic growth and youth empowerment.
