21 April 2008
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today received the keys to the Liberian capital, Monrovia, as he arrived in the West African country for the second leg of a four-nation regional tour.
Mr. Ban was greeted by Vice-President Joseph N. Boakai and an honour guard, comprising personnel from the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), after touching down in Monrovia.
At the key ceremony which took place later at City Hall, Mr. Ban thanked the Liberian people and pointed out Monrovia's historic significance.
"This city, founded more than 150 years ago as a symbol of liberty, expresses one of the most cherished values of the UN," he said.
In an interview with UNMIL Radio, the Secretary-General said that he is in Liberia - which is rebuilding after a 15-year civil war - in a show of support and admiration for the country's people.
Prior to visiting Liberia, he had been in Accra, Ghana, to take part in the twelfth UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
During his time in Liberia, Mr. Ban plans to address a joint session of the national legislature and to meet with Government officials. He is also scheduled to meet with UN staff and personnel serving in Liberia.
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