By Alex Yomah
President George Weah has given a special tribute to the Government and people of the United States of America as part of his special message delivered at event marking the 175th Independence Day celebration in Liberia.
“We want to acknowledge with profound gratitude the special relationship subsisting between Liberia and the United States of America; indeed, we are connected and it is very clear from our history that the People of the United States of America have goodwill towards Liberia and Liberians, and the feeling is mutual,” Weah admitted.
He said, “This goodwill was manifested by the decision of the American Government to make a commemorative plaque that was given to Liberia on the occasion of our Centennial Celebration on July 26, 1947. And now today, at this celebration of our 175th Independence Anniversary; we have just witnessed the resubmission of that plaque to the Government of Liberia by the American Ambassador to Liberia, Michael McCarthy,” he said.
The Liberian Chief Executive said, “On behalf of the Government and People of Liberia, we extend our profound thanks and appreciation to the Government and People of the United States of America; through you, Ambassador McCarthy, for this recognition and solidarity. We cherish the wording on the plaque, and remain optimistic that our two Governments and Peoples will continue to embrace each other in harmony and love.”
Pres. Weah described the 175th Independence Celebration as unique, because it also coincided with another major national milestone, which is the observance and celebration of our Bicentennial, marking 200 years since our founding.
“These large numbers which define our continuous existence as a body politic are genuine and valid reasons for celebration,” the Liberian leader said.
However, Weah said, they also presented the opportunity for us, Liberians to “soberly reflect on our political genesis and journey, not only from whence we have come, but also how long and how far we have traveled together, lived together, worked together, survived together and developed together.”
“Indeed, the bonds that have held us together have been tried and tested over these years, and continue to grow in strength as we advance together in cohesion as One People, with One Destiny,” he said.
“Yes, we may have differences, but we are proud of the ties that inspire our unity, so, let us join ranks and consolidate our resources as a Nation and People, so as to uphold the legacy that our forefathers have passed on to us, because there is so much more that unites us, than divide us.”
“I therefore encourage you, my fellow citizens, to put off the spirit of disagreement and division, and put on the spirit of unity, love, reconciliation, peace, stability and nationalism. We must respect and love one another,” Weah explained.
According to him “I urge you to join me to build our dear country and it does not matter who you are, or your status in life. It does not matter what political ideology you aspire to, or your ethnic background; religious persuasion, social class, or academic standard. We have a patriotic duty, and a sacred obligation, to protect our sovereignty through good deeds, innovation, and hard work. We must unite and be reconciled in peaceful co-existence as citizens of Liberia,” he said.
The former football icon said, “Maintaining our sovereignty is the most successful achievement we have made as a nation and people. It is now our collective responsibility to sustain the peace, security, and stability of this first independent nation in Africa, called Liberia.”
“We must advance its credentials for good governance, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law; as well as its core values and principles,” Weah said.
In his concluding statement, he said, “I say today to all Liberians, hear me and hear me well. Whether it brought us here, or met us here, let that Love of Liberty UNITE us here.”
Meanwhile, President Weah’s special recognition was triggered by an open invitation note from American Ambassador to Liberia, Michael McCarthy to visit America four years since his ascendency as President of Liberia.
In his response, “To my good friend McCarthy, please inform President Biden that I received and accept his invitation to attend the Summit in Washington D.C. I will be there to represent the Liberian people,” Weah concluded.
