On 4 June 2026, the Embassy in Monrovia hosted a full day celebration to highlight the long-standing relationship with Liberia and the results of the bilateral development cooperation, in light of the upcoming closure of the embassy later in 2026.
In the evening, Sweden’s National Day was celebrated with a reception that brought together government representatives, the diplomatic corps, partner organizations, Swedish companies, and others with ties to Sweden. The Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, attended and emphasized in her speech that “Sweden listens”— that through Sweden’s long relationship with Liberia, Sweden has always been a responsive and respectful partner. “We gather this evening to celebrate a friendship, a friendship that has been tested by time, strengthened by mutual respect, and sustained by shared values”, she said.
The National Day celebration also provided an opportunity for the embassy to bid farewell to partners and friends in Liberia ahead of the embassy’s closure later this year. Ambassador Karl Backéus reiterated that although it is sad to say goodbye, Sweden does not intend to sever its ties with Liberia; instead, the partnership will take on new and different forms.
Before the evening reception, the embassy organized a daytime event with partner organizations to celebrate nearly two decades of bilateral development cooperation and to discuss the results of Sweden‑funded programs and projects. As Sweden’s bilateral development cooperation with Liberia comes to an end, this event served as a ceremonial conclusion to honor the long-standing collaboration and shared achievements. Participants had the opportunity to network, exchange experiences, and reflect on institutional development and sustainability.
