President Weah Hails Liberia-US Relations, Says Both Countries Have Stood Test of Time
MONROVIA – President George Manneh Weah has congratulated the Government and people of the United States of America on the occasion marking its 247th Independence.
On Thursday, President Weah joined officials of the US Embassy near Monrovia and other international dignitaries to celebrate the in-advanced Independence commemoration of the United States at the Executive Pavilion on Broad and Ashmun Streets.
The United States’ Independence anniversary is commemorated officially on July 4 every year, but the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia usually observes the historic day before the actual date.
In a special statement, President Weah reflected on the historically tortuous journey both Liberia and the United States have trekked for more than a century in pursuit of political, economic freedom, and global peace.
He recounted strides that Liberia and the US have made in standing heads-and-shoulders together in good and in bad times, sharing common positions on political ideology, liberal democracy, open capitalist economic systems, human rights, and the exercise and protection of the inalienable rights of their citizens and peoples.
“We hold these shared values sacred and have defended them unrelentingly, and will continue to defend them without compromise,” the President stressed, adding that the two countries would continue to be aggressive for what is right for Liberia, in order to save Liberia from those who want to be aggressive for what is wrong for Liberia.
“Liberia is a natural and mutual ally of the United States,” President Weah asserted further. “Some of the forefathers and foremothers of the Republic of Liberia came out of the United States. They came here in pursuit of Liberty, Justice, and Equality. Although Liberia was never a colony of the United States, Liberians were not left alone in their struggle to defend their independence and sovereignty.”
According to him, the US declared a special interest in Liberia maintaining its sovereignty, and has worked diligently since the country’s humble beginnings as Africa’s first Republic to ensure that “we have remained an independent country throughout our existence”.
He added that Liberia is grateful for the US’ stance and equally proud of the relationship.
“Defending independence and sovereignty for more than two and a half centuries is not fantasy or guesswork. It is a glorious feat achieved by endurance, hard work, and dedication,” President Weah stressed. “It is an achievement, won out of patriotism, nationalism and perseverance.”
He said the people of the United States of America have meritoriously defended their cause and dignity with their sweat, blood, and resources, not only for themselves but also for others.
President Weah said he was pleased to join US Ambassador Michael McCarthy and millions of Americans across the world to commemorate the 247th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States.
He conveyed Liberia’s warmest greetings to Joseph R. Biden, Jr., President of the United States, and the government and illustrious People of the United States, on behalf of the Government and People of Liberia.
President Weah extended special appreciation to Ambassador McCarthy, who is expected to leave shortly after ending a tour of duty in Liberia in January 2021.
He recalled how Ambassador McCarthy began his tour of duty under difficult circumstances, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“He embarked on his work with high spirit, helping the Liberian Government in its relentless fight against corruption and human trafficking,” the President recalled.
Earlier, Amb. McCarthy lauded the Weah’s administration for standing with the United States and NATO in speaking against Russia’s “unprovoked attack against Ukraine. Amb. McCarthy who end is mission in Liberia in less than two weeks, highlighted significant strides made by the Liberian Government, especially in the energy sector, women’s empowerment and the fight against human trafficking
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