The Government of Liberia and the People’s Republic of China have broken ground for the construction of a National Clinical Diagnostic and Treatment Laboratory near the EBK Military Barracks in lower Margibi County.
Speaking Friday, December 20, 2024 at the groundbreaking ceremony, Boakai described the project as an emerging state-of-the-art facility that will fill a void for all Liberians and a center that will serve as a beacon of hope and progress for the citizens.
“This remarkable project, sponsored by the Chinese Government, and implemented by China Aid Liberia, symbolizes the strength and depth of the partnership between our two nations. It is a testament to the shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of the citizens of Liberia,” he said.
According to him, the construction of the laboratory is not just about building another physical structure; it is about building a future wherein every Liberian has access to high-quality healthcare services.
He said the facility will enhance the presently challenged diagnostic and treatment capabilities, enabling citizens to more robustly confront and resolve public health challenges, respond to medical emergencies, and improve the overall health outcomes of the population.
Boakai: “Indeed, it is a known fact that the job of the Military demands a well-built, strong, healthy, and vibrant physique. This was taken into consideration in conceptualizing this center. Let us note here that this laboratory will not only serve our Armed Forces; it will also be a critical resource for anyone who stands in need.”
President Boakai said the groundbreaking is more than just a ceremony, but a commitment to the future; it is a promise to the people of Liberia that their health and well-being stand at the top of his government priority list.
He explained that the facility will be an unbending cord in the structure of the healthcare system, providing cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment services that will save lives and improve the quality of life for countless individuals.
The president extended heartfelt appreciation to the Government and people of China for their unwavering support and commitment to Liberia’s development.
For her part, Liberia’s Defense Minister, Geraldine Janet George, described the project as a significant milestone in the healthcare infrastructure and symbolizes the unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of all Liberians.
Minister George said the partnership between Liberia and China has been instrumental in driving the development agenda forward.
“China has been very instrumental in Liberia’s joining towards progress, providing support across various sectors; disclosing that the Ministry of Defense has benefited from Liberia and China partnership, receiving donations amongst others.
Also speaking, Chinese Ambassador, H.E. YIN Chengwu, said the groundbreaking ceremony of the China-Aid Project of the National Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Laboratory exemplifies the symbol of the shared vision, enduring friendship, and fruitful cooperation between the both countries.
Ambassador Chengwu said that the project also demonstrates China’s strong determination to implement the outcomes of the meeting between President Xi Jinping and President Boakai during the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
According to him, it is the first groundbreaking facility of China-Aid projects following the meeting, showcasing the elevation of our bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership announced by the two heads of state; adding that the project serves as a symbol of common commitment to mutual development and cooperation, also embodies the vision set forth during the Summit.
“As we embark on building this meaningful facility, let us bear in mind that every brick laid here, every equipment set here, every efforts made here, and every dream realized here, will be generalized into an action to accelerate the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development of Liberia, and a monument of a community with a shared future for China and Liberia,” the Chinese Ambassador said.
By Prince Saah
