-At Groundbreaking of Overpass Bridges
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By Jessica Cox
Monrovia – Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Yin Chengwu, has described the construction of two China-aid overpass bridges along Tubman Boulevard as a milestone in the growing partnership between Liberia and China.
Speaking Tuesday at the official groundbreaking ceremony, Ambassador Yin said the project demonstrates China’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s development priorities, particularly in the area of road infrastructure. He extended congratulations on the commencement of the works and thanked the Ministry of Public Works, along with other Liberian ministries and agencies, for their collaboration.
“Though China and Liberia are far apart geographically, our two nations remain closely connected,” he noted, recalling that bilateral relations were elevated to a strategic partnership following the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Joseph Boakai.
According to Ambassador Yin, the overpass project reflects the outcomes of those discussions and is a practical example of China’s support for President Boakai’s ARREST agenda, which prioritizes road construction and economic revitalization.
He emphasized that the two flyovers, to be built at key intersections on Tubman Boulevard, will help ease traffic congestion, shorten travel times, improve logistics, and create broader economic benefits. “This project is not only about modernizing Liberia’s transport system but also about improving people’s daily lives,” he stressed.
The Ambassador further explained that the general contractor, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), was selected through a competitive bidding process in China, underscoring Beijing’s commitment to high standards and transparency. CRBC, he said, brings global experience in major infrastructure works, including bridges, highways, and ports.
Ambassador Yin expressed confidence that, within the 24-month timeline, the project would be completed to specification. He also called for continued cooperation between Liberian authorities and Chinese firms to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.
Looking beyond infrastructure, the Ambassador described the flyovers as “bridges of friendship” between the two nations, symbolizing shared growth and mutual benefit. “I am certain these flyovers will inject new momentum into Liberia’s economic and social development,” he said.
Meanwhile, In his statement at the ceremony, President Boakai said the project goes beyond steel and concrete, representing “a practical solution to reduce congestion, improve safety, and prevent the daily economic losses caused by traffic delays.” He added that the overpasses will also improve emergency responses by facilitating the movement of ambulances and fire trucks.
The President emphasized that the initiative aligns with his administration’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, which prioritizes road infrastructure as a foundation for inclusive growth. “Roads connect people to opportunities and are essential to ending rural neglect,” he noted. “By investing in modern road systems, we are building the foundation for a unified, accessible, and prosperous Liberia.”
