The final check and acceptance procedures of the upgrading and reconstruction project of Roberts International Airport in Liberia financed by China Eximbank have been completed recently. As one of the landmark collaborative projects of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road between China and Liberia, the project is of great significance for Liberia in its efforts to realize its modernization goal.

     Roberts International Airport was first built during World War II. Over the years, its facilities gradually wore out, and what’s worse, due to the Ebola epidemic, some airlines canceled flights landing at this airport. With the support of China Eximbank, Chinese companies upgraded and rebuilt the airport. At present, this sole international airport in Liberia has taken on a new look with the "dove of peace" shaped new terminal building, an illuminous and spacious departure hall, self-contained supporting facilities and flat airstrips. 

     The project significantly improved the handling capacity of the airport and its image as Liberia’s national gateway. It can help Liberia break through the traffic bottlenecks, restore its position as an aviation hub in West Africa and improve its comprehensive competitiveness. At the same time, a large number of jobs were created and a group of skilled workers were cultivated. For the moment, local workers are able to run the new airport independently. 

     Liberian President George Weah thanked China for its help in project construction on many occasions. "Now we can finally welcome visitors from various parts of the world with confidence", said the President, "the project built by China has offered Liberia new hope". 

     Going forward, China Eximbank will give full play to its advantages in financial services and focus on implementing the eight major initiatives on cooperation with Africa. It will continue to facilitate Chinese companies’ going global endeavors and their participation in Liberia's poverty alleviation agenda as well its economic revitalization and push forward the friendly relations and pragmatic cooperation between China and Liberia.