
Photo: Hon. Jerolinmek M. Piah, information Minister.
Liberia has reaffirmed its firm commitment to African unity and collective diplomacy on the global stage, with Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah emphasizing that the country’s role at the United Nations Security Council is guided by Africa’s shared interests rather than narrow national priorities.
Speaking during a press engagement in Monrovia, Minister Piah explained that Liberia currently serves as one of the three African countries occupying non-permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, collectively known as the A3.
He stressed that the A3 exists to advance a unified African position on matters of international peace and security.
“The three seats on the United Nations Security Council are allocated to Africa as a continent, and the countries selected to occupy them are chosen by their peers to represent Africa’s collective voice, not individual national interests,” Minister Piah stated.
He clarified that Liberia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Lewis G. Brown II, does not speak for Liberia alone when addressing the Security Council. Instead, he conveys positions that have been jointly agreed upon by the African members in line with decisions and policy guidance from the African Union.
“When Ambassador Brown addresses the Security Council, he speaks on behalf of the A3, articulating positions that have been collectively adopted and aligned with the African Union,” the Information Minister said.
Addressing developments in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Minister Piah disclosed that the A3 has fully aligned itself with the African Union’s most recent communiqué on the situation. He noted that the group continues to monitor events in Venezuela with deep concern, particularly reports of detentions and political tensions.
“The A3 remains deeply concerned about developments in Venezuela, including reports of detentions, and continues to monitor the situation closely,” Minister Piah said. “We stand ready to support all initiatives within the United Nations Security Council, working with regional and international partners, to facilitate a peaceful, inclusive, and durable resolution to the crisis.”
He emphasized that Africa’s position on Venezuela reflects its broader commitment to dialogue, respect for sovereignty, and peaceful conflict resolution. According to him, the A3’s approach is guided by African Union principles and seeks to encourage inclusive political processes rather than confrontation or coercion.
Minister Piah further explained that the A3 mechanism allows African countries serving on the Security Council to coordinate closely, ensuring that Africa speaks with one voice on global security issues. The non-permanent seats rotate among African Union member states, with representatives expected to defend and advance the continent’s common positions at the Council.
“Liberia takes this responsibility seriously. Our participation in the A3 demonstrates our commitment to multilateral diplomacy, regional solidarity, and the advancement of Africa’s collective interests on the global stage,” he said.
He added that Liberia’s engagement at the Security Council highlights the country’s dedication to strengthening Africa’s influence in international decision-making. “By working together with our African partners, we ensure that Africa’s voice is not only heard but respected in discussions that shape global peace and security,” Minister Piah noted.
The Information Minister concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s unwavering support for the African Union and its principles. “Liberia remains committed to African unity. Through the A3, we continue to advance Africa’s priorities, promote peace, and contribute to constructive global engagement,” he said.
Liberia’s role in the A3 underscores its growing profile in international diplomacy and its long-standing tradition of supporting African-led solutions to global challenges. As global attention remains focused on evolving crises such as the situation in Venezuela, Minister Piah assured that Liberia, alongside its African partners, will continue to advocate for peaceful dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable solutions rooted in international law and mutual respect.