Monrovia – The Government of Liberia has received 15 third-country nationals transferred from the United States under a recently concluded Exchange of Notes Arrangement between the two governments.
The group arrived at Roberts International Airport and was formally received on behalf of the Liberian government by Cllr. J. Cole Bangalu, Executive Director of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), alongside officials from the Ministry of Health and other relevant government institutions.
Upon arrival, the individuals underwent immigration, health and security screening and were processed under established reception procedures as the government prepares to facilitate their possible return to their countries of origin.
The government said arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and welfare of the 15 individuals while they remain in Liberia.
Their arrival comes days after the government announced on Tuesday, August 18, the signing of an agreement with the United States providing for the safe, dignified and orderly transfer to Liberia of eligible individuals being removed from the United States who have requested international protection.
The government emphasized that the individuals are not being received as criminals and will not face prosecution in Liberia or the United States simply because they were transferred under the arrangement.
According to the government, those received will be treated with dignity and respect and will remain free to leave Liberia if they choose to do so.
Individuals who wish to seek asylum and establish residence in Liberia will be subject to applicable Liberian and international laws governing asylum and protection.
The government said Liberia’s participation reflects its longstanding tradition of providing refuge to people fleeing persecution, conflict and political instability.
It called on Liberians to welcome the arrivals with courtesy, dignity and hospitality while assuring the public that the government will continue to protect Liberia’s national interests.
The LRRRC, Ministry of Health, immigration and security authorities, along with other government institutions, will oversee implementation of the arrangement, according to Deputy Minister for Press and Public Affairs Daniel O. Sando.
