President George M. Weah has congratulated the Government and people of the United States of America on the occasion marking the 247th Independence of the World’s Super Power.
On Thursday, June 29, 2023, the Liberian Leader 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 Ashmun Street.
The United States of America gained independence on July 4, 1774, following a brutal civil upheaval against British imperialistic rule.
In a special statement, President Weah reflected on the historically torturous journey both Liberia and the United States have trekked more than a century in pursuit of political, economic freedom, and global peace.
The Liberian leader 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 guess work. 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.”
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 then 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 also extended special appreciation to Ambassador McCarthy, who is expected to leave shortly after ending a tour of duty in Liberia since January 2021, and at the same time 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.
For his part, outgoing United States Ambassador to Liberia, Michael McCarthy has expressed his unwavering optimism for Liberia’s future growth and development despite the many challenges confronting the country.
In a heartfelt farewell speech, the outgoing US Diplomat also highlighted the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, emphasizing the potential for Liberia’s progress and prosperity in the years to come.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of Liberian officials, diplomats, and community leaders among others, Amb. McCarthy at same time lauded the remarkable strides Liberia had made since its devastating civil war.
He also commended the Liberian people’s resilience, determination, and commitment to peace, as well as the efforts of the government in fostering stability and economic growth ahead of the country October 10, 2023 Presidential and Legislative.
McCarthy Expresses, “As my time as the U.S Ambassador to Liberia comes to an end, I want to express my deep gratitude for the warm welcome and friendship I have received during mu tenure serving as Chief of Mission of the U.S embassy in Monrovia.”
“So, bearing this in mind, I have the following reflections on the state of our two nations, the pride I hold in our bilateral relations, and the potential future of Liberia. In fact, in my time here, if there is one reoccurring theme that unites every visitor to this country, it is the sense of Liberia’s Potential! There are so many reasons hope,” he maintained.
According to him, Liberians refused to accept that programs is “inevitable,” rather, they see that improvements are made when leaders in that society have the determination, honesty, and integrity to put the needs of the country before their personal interest.
He noted, “I see promise in the exciting return of 13 Peace Corps Volunteers who arrived in Liberia o June 6, after a three-year absence due to COVID-19! As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, I look forward to leaning how their time here is providing profound mutual benefit for the country and their personal development.”
Amb. McCarthy further narrated that in the potential of genuine decentralization, fully enabled under law, putting resources and responsibilities in the hands of those closet to the service customer base, so that each county and city can be its own test case with custom-made solutions.
He added that a more prosperous Liberia, is, of course, one of the main goals at the U.S. Embassy a d that’s the reason what the U.S government continue to provide substantial support to Liberia across various sectors, including health, education, business, and political leadership.
“So, going forward, Liberia can have a bright future if it so chooses. It will require substantial follow-through on these important issues I have mentioned as well as others, including peaceful, free and fair elections just 15 weeks from now.
“With continued commitment and collaboration, I’m confident that Liberia has the power to emerge stronger and more prosperous that ever before, and serving as Chief of Mission has been the honor of a lifetime, and I will cherish the memories and experiences from this remarkable country forever, even as I begin my journey into retirement,” Amb. McCarthy Expressed.
As he concluded his speech, the outgoing US Diplomat reaffirmed the United States’ enduring commitment to supporting Liberia’s progress including the country’s upcoming October 10 general elections.
