Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative of Liberia to the UN, H.E. Baba Sillah, at a ceremony commemorating the International Day of Forests 2026

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 | UNHQ, New York

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 Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates;

It is an honor for the Republic of Liberia to join the international community in observing the International Day of Forests under the theme Forest and Economies. 

I thank the organizers for convening this event. 

Liberia is home to more than 42% of the upper Gaining Forests, one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems.

Our forests are central to our national identity and play a vital role in our economy, environment and sustainable development. They support livelihoods, protect biodiversity, regulate climate and contribute to global ecological balance. This year's theme highlights a key reality: Forests are not only environmental assets but also economic drivers. 

In Liberia, the forestry sector contributes to national revenue through sustainable timber production and exports. At the same time, non timber first products such as honey, medicinal plants, fruits and natural fibers are essential for rural livelihoods.

Forests are also important resources for household energy and entrepreneurship. Agroforestry and small scale enterprises provide jobs and support economic diversification.

Emerging opportunities in ecotourism, conservation enterprises and climate finance further position our forests as valuable national and global assets. Our national framework, including the National Forestry Reform Law, the National Forestry Policy and our three C's approach of Commercial, Community and Conservation forestry supports inclusive and responsible forest governance. The Community Rights Law empowers local communities, while our REDD+ strategy advances conservation and access to Climate Finance.

Chair,

We in Liberia continue to strengthen these efforts through partnerships and programs that improve governance, expand value chains and support sustainable enterprises.

However, unlocking the full potential of forest requires strong international support. We call for increased and predictable and sustainable financing, technology transfer and capacity building, along with fair market assets and equitable benefit sharing. We also emphasize the need to fully value ecosystem services. Forests produce critical benefits beyond timber, including carbon storage, watershed production, biodiversity conservation and agricultural support. 

Recognizing these contributions is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and addressing climate change.

As we reflect on this theme, Liberia's reaffirmation of its commitment to protecting the forests while responsibly advancing their economic potential is brought forth. Sustainably managed forests can drive resilience, prosperity and environmental stewardship. 

Let us work together to ensure that firsts remain vital to both our economies and our planet.

I thank you.