13 March 2008
American political observers often say United States President George W. Bush has an ardent passion for Africans and their descendents, the African-Americans. Bush has shown that spirit and interest in Liberia.
He is on record for urging former President Charles Taylor to leave Liberia to give peace a chance. To crown his concern, President Bush included Liberia in his five African nations' tour.
As The Analyst reports, the memories of his visit still live with him and in his letter to the Liberian people, he confessed that he is proud to be a friend Liberia's first female President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
The one day state visit to Liberia by President George Bush infused new vivacity to the more than a century bilateral ties subsisting between Liberia and the United States of America and their and peoples.
During his visit here, President Bush pledged to give one million textbooks and ten thousand desks to the educational sector. He also pledged US continuous commitment to revitalize security and strengthen Liberia's reconstruction, democracy and freedom.
Pres. Bush delivered a heartwarming speech recently at the refurbished Barclay Training Center (BTC) and said the United States will continue to build strong partnership with Liberia in its reconstruction drive.
He gave President Johnson-Sirleaf a pat on the back for the strong leadership being provided in the reconstruction of the country. He, referring to her as a "friend", praised the Madam Sirleaf for the progress taking place in Liberia.
Apparently not sufficient, the US President has written a letter to the people of Liberia expressing the appreciation of his wife, Laura and himself for the warm reception given them.
Bush declared in his letter, dated March 12, 2008 said, "The spirit of the Liberian people was unmistakable." The US President said he and his family will not forget all the Liberians who lined the streets to celebrate their visit.
But of President Johnson-Sirleaf, Bush affirmed: "I am proud to have a strong friendship with President Sirleaf. She is a tireless advocate for Liberia."
Pres. Bush said he knows that President Sirleaf is committed to freedom and democracy. "The United States will continue to be your partner."
In concluding, Pres. Bush wrote: "Laura and I hope to visit you again in the years ahead," and thanked the Liberian people for their "true friendship and kind hospitality".
"Hosting a presidential event can cause inconveniences and we thank you for your warmth and patience during our stay."
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