U.S. pledges continued support to Liberia

The United States Ambassador to Liberia Christine Elder says her country and other international partners will continue to support Liberia’s development as it moves to the next chapter.

Speaking late Wednesday evening, 12 July during the observance of the U.S. 241st independence in Monrovia, Amb. Elder expressed confidence that the transfer of remaining responsibilities will happen as smoothly as the transfer of security responsibilities a year ago.

She notes that the U.S. has been pleased to lend a helping hand as Liberia advances the professionalization of its Armed Forces and the police. Amb. Elder says the U.S. –Liberia relationship remains strong, and that their commitment to that partnership is deep. She adds that their mutual goals are Clear, noting that this focus has allowed them to make great strides forward in cooperation, development, and security.

The U.S. envoy notes that she is very confident that Liberia’s election will be free, fair, transparent and peaceful. She says she looks forward to candidates sharing their vision for Liberia with the benefit of a level playing field of electoral competition.

For her part, President Ellen Johnson – Sirleaf said over the years, the celebration has given an opportunity to reflect on longstanding historical ties between the two nations.

She said Liberians are not only friends of America but share a common
history that bear the same principles that they are family.

Mrs. Sirleaf says after two and a half century of existing, the people of the United States have remained true to these principles and value which inspire its independence, citing freedom, liberty and justice.

President Sirleaf notes that these values have built a strong nation. She concludes that as Liberians move to election, the people must once again decide the destiny of our nation.
–Edited by Winston W. Parley