The Chinese Business Association of Liberia (CBAL) on Wednesday, July 11, 2012 awarded opened scholarship scene for deserving Liberian students at university level.

The signing of the scholarship program was held between the organization and the Ministry of Education at the Chinese Embassy in Congo Town, outside Monrovia.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Vice President and Secretary General of CBAL, Mr. Fu Lianquan, said many students will benefit from this program and it would make them further devote themselves to the reconstruction of Liberia.

CBAL was founded on 17th March 2011 here in order to guide members of the association to carry out their business according to Liberia Laws and regulations, respect the local habit and religion and strength the friendship between the China and Liberia.

He said the organization is also aimed at protecting its members' legal rights and benefits and represent them to negotiate with government authorities and other organizations.

"We are also established to exchange ideas with Liberia industrial and commercial circles, local enterprises and local people, provide relevant laws, market information to the members and other Chinese contractors and investors," said Mr. Fu.

He said members of the association include: China Union, CICO, CHICO and most of the major Chinese contractor and investor in Liberia.

For her part, Education Minister, Madam Etmonia David-Tarpeh, lauded the CBAL for its contribution towards Liberia's education sector.

She noted that the CBAL's gesture is a clear manifestation of the people of China continued support towards the human resource development of Liberia.

"I want to be very grateful to the Chinese Business Association for its assistance to the people of Liberia. Everything that this country needs for its rebuilding process, education comes first and so, there is a need that we place great emphasis on education," Minister David-Tarpeh stated.

"I also think this initiative is a clear manifestation of China's continued support to Liberia's human resource development. I also think that this is a further step towards our development initiatives," she amongst other things added.