The United States has designated Monrovia (capital of Liberia, a West African nation with deep historical ties to the US) as one of 20 African centres to handle American visa applications from the region, with some applicants now potentially directed there for processing. US authorities will retain exclusive authority to issue visas, but the selection is seen in Liberia as a sign of strengthened bilateral relations under President Joseph Boakai, who has overseen improvements in passport security that helped rebuild American confidence. Liberian officials also anticipate economic benefits, with an influx of regional visa applicants expected to boost hotels, transport companies, and businesses in Monrovia.