By Bill W. Cooper
President Joseph Boakai has urged his government officials to showcase Liberia in order to earn the respect that the country deserves among the comity of nations and as Africa oldest independent country.
The President also emphasized the importance of projecting a positive image of the country to the rest of the world in order to attract foreign-direct investments as well as promote economic growth.
He said, “As a country, we must position ourselves for development and move forward and better. We must also showcase Liberia to earn the respect we deserve as a country,” President Boakai asserted at the climax of his government’s 3-day cabinet retreat in Congo Town.
The retreat which was crucial to the progress of the administration following the Boakai-led government first 100 days in office was held under the theme: “Coordination and Performance: Delivering on National Agenda Priorities.”
During the intensive three days retreat, the participants engaged in constructive dialogue and strategic planning to address Liberia’s economic and social challenges coupled with charting a course that advances the nation’s interests and fosters inclusive development.
In his closing remark, President Boakai further highlighted the need for his officials to work together as a team to address the challenges facing the country and to implement policies that will benefit all Liberians.
He stressed the importance of transparency, accountability, and good governance in order to build trust with the people and the international community in line with his government’s Agriculture, Rule of Law, Roads, Education, Sanitation and Tourism (ARREST) agenda.
He commended his cabinet, officials, and staff for advancing the government’s agenda despite time constraints and limited resources in its first 100 days.
Boakai reiterated his government’s efforts to transformative change and urged officials to embrace a spirit of coordination and dedication, noting, “It is no longer business as usual and as such, I challenge you all to prioritize hard work and unwavering commitment to Liberia.”
Speaking on the global challenges and opportunities facing Liberia, the President further stressed the need for the country to compete on the international stage and set high standards for progress and economic and infrastructure development.
He further called on his officials to do away with corruption and self-interest, urging them to uphold their duty to the Liberian people with honesty, interests and commitment; which he said, is key to nation’s building.
Boakai added, “For me and the ARREST Agenda, the Liberian people are our priority and primary objective and that is something that I am committed to and will do all I can to ensure the lives of people are uplifted and improved.”
The President concluded by expressing confidence in the outcomes of the retreat and reiterated his commitment to advancing Liberia’s development agenda, saying “In all that we do, let us always think Liberia, love Liberia, and together build Liberia.”
Meanwhile, by prioritizing transparency, accountability, and good governance, President Boakai believes that Liberia can overcome its challenges and achieve its full potential as a prosperous and respected nation.
