Lisbon, Portugal — Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay, Sr., Liberia's newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Portuguese Republic, has officially presented his Letters of Credence to His Excellency Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of Portugal, signaling a renewed chapter in Liberia-Portugal relations.
At the credentialing ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Lisbon, Ambassador Yorlay expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception accorded him and his delegation upon their arrival from Paris. He conveyed greetings on behalf of His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, as well as the Government and people of Liberia, extending admiration and goodwill to the Portuguese Government and citizens.
Reflecting on the longstanding diplomatic partnership between the two nations, Ambassador Yorlay praised the strong bonds built on mutual respect, democratic values, and shared global aspirations. He acknowledged Portugal's instrumental role in supporting Liberia's post-war recovery through the European Union, describing the relationship as a testament to what can be achieved when nations work together in pursuit of peace and prosperity.
"With the launch of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development under President Boakai's leadership," Ambassador Yorlay stated, "Liberia is charting a transformative path focused on Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. We view Portugal not only as a friend but as a vital partner in this national journey."
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He extended an open invitation to Portuguese investors and enterprises to explore opportunities in Liberia, particularly in sectors aligned with the country's development priorities. He further reaffirmed his commitment to deepening trade relations, educational and cultural exchanges, and multilateral cooperation.
Highlighting Liberia's bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, Ambassador Yorlay appealed to the Portuguese Government for support in the upcoming June 3rd election. "President Boakai believes deeply in multilateralism and Liberia's potential to contribute meaningfully to global peace and security--principles that Portugal has long upheld," he noted.
Education was also a central theme of his remarks. Ambassador Yorlay called for an expansion of scholarship opportunities for Liberian students in Portugal. While recognizing the support already provided through EU-funded programs, he expressed his commitment to working with Portuguese authorities to establish direct bilateral scholarship schemes.
Although based in Paris, the Ambassador assured the Portuguese President of his dedication to strengthening relations with Portugal.
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"I pledge to serve with sincerity, dedication, and a shared vision for the future of our two peoples," Ambassador Yorlay said. "With your support and partnership, I am confident that we can elevate Liberia-Portugal relations to new and meaningful heights."
As he begins his diplomatic tenure, Ambassador Yorlay reaffirmed his focus on building a partnership grounded not only in historical ties but also in shared goals for sustainable development, international cooperation, and mutual advancement.
