President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. of Liberia has embarked on an official visit to Rome, Italy, to deliver a keynote address at the World Food Forum. The event is organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and runs from October 14 to 18, 2024. It aims to bring together global leaders and stakeholders to discuss issues related to food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development.
President Boakai's speech will focus on Liberia's role in global food security and outline the nation's strategies for tackling food-related challenges. He will also stress the importance of international cooperation in combating hunger and promoting sustainable agricultural growth.
During his visit, President Boakai will attend a luncheon with the Director General of the FAO and hold meetings with notable figures such as the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), and Pope Francis at the Vatican.
He will also engage with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and other top Italian officials to explore strategic partnerships. These discussions are expected to cover topics like industrial development, critical minerals, hybrid energy systems, and collaboration opportunities under Italy's "Piano Mattei" investment plan for Africa.
The President plans to meet with members of the Liberian diaspora in Italy as well as explore potential collaborations with African and European communities. His participation in World Food Day on October 16 will mark one of the highlights of his visit.
Accompanying President Boakai are several officials including Honorable Jonathan Fonati Koffa, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Honorable Alexander Nuetah, Minister of Agriculture; Honorable Jerolimek Piah, Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism; and Ambassador Antionette Wolo, Chief of Protocol for Liberia. The delegation is set to return home on October 20, 2024.
In President Boakai's absence from Liberia, Honorable Sylvester M. Grigsby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Chief of Staff, will oversee Cabinet activities in consultation with both the Vice President and President Boakai himself.
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