In remarks when he officially launched the National Export Strategy on Tourism at the Monrovia City Hall Wednesday, VP Boakai indicated that even long before Liberia’s accession to the WTO, the government has always remained cognizant of the need to pursue diversification to create sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for women and youth.

Vice President Boakai noted that the government also views the launch as a key component of the WTO Post-Accession plan and welcomes the superb coordination between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which is the lead coordinator of the plan, the Ministry of Information, which is the implementing agency, and the Special Committee on Tourism led by Ms. Barkue Tubman Zawolo.

“We will strive to leave you with the free hand to operate, to woo the private sector, and attract resources to nudge our tourism sector; by experience, tourism has prospered when it is more in private hands. Do not burden your committee with scores of members that could render the entity too bureaucratic,” the Liberian Vice President said.

He emphasized that President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the people of Liberia are truly inspired by this initiative because it bears huge potential to impact Liberians across the country, as the government is particularly excited about the Kpatawee Waterfall and other key sites because they foster a culture of patriotism and promote what Liberia has to offer in the tourism sector.

Vice President Boakai lauded all those who have striven over the years to make the launch of the National Export Strategy and Liberia’s accession to the WTO a success, and further challenged them to join the government in its commitment to implement this road map; adding “We will succeed in this if we bring the projects identified therein to life. We will continue to do our part and we look up to you to do your part as well,” he pointed out.
LINA/PSN/TSS