By Bill W. Cooper
Outgoing United States Ambassador to Liberia, Michael McCarthy, 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 highlighted the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations as well as emphasizing the potential for Liberia’s progress and prosperity in the years to come.
He spoke Thursday, June 29, 2023 at the Executive Pavilion in Monrovia at a program marking the commemoration of the 247th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America (USA), which is slated for July 4.
The United States of America gained independence on July 4, 1774, following a brutal civil upheaval against British imperialistic rule.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of Liberian officials, diplomats, and community leaders among others, Amb. McCarthy lauded the remarkable strides Liberia had made since its devastating civil war and 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, Presidential and Legislative.
McCarthy said, “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 my 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, during 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 for hope,” he stressed.
According to him, Liberians refused to accept that programs are “inevitable,” rather, they see that improvements are made when leaders in their society have the determination, honesty, and integrity to put the needs of the country before their personal interest.
He noted, “I see promises in the exciting return of 13 Peace Corps Volunteers who arrived in Liberia on 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 observed that in the potential of genuine decentralization, fully enabled under law, putting resources and responsibilities in the hands of those closest 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.
In conclusion, the outgoing US Diplomat reaffirmed the United States’ enduring commitment to supporting Liberia’s progress including the country’s upcoming October 10 general elections.
For his part, President George Weah congratulated Ambassador McCarthy, the Government and people of America on the occasion marking their 247th Independence.
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 President 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, and 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,” the Liberian Chief Executive stressed.
“Liberia is a natural and mutual ally of the United States. 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,” he maintained.
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.”
The Liberian leader stated that 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.
