Monrovia — President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is back in the country after holding regular consultations with Guinean President Lansana Conte in Conakry.

The discussions were aimed at fostering bilateral cooperation and strengthening peace and security between the two countries. President Sirleaf who currently chairs the Mano River Union sub-regional grouping also discussed with the Guinean President the need to strengthen the secretariat of the Union and work towards the implementation of programs for food security in the region.

An Executive Mansion release says Monday's meeting between the two Mano River Union countries comes ahead of a summit later this month of Mano River Union member countries to be held in Conakry, Guinea.

Internal Affairs Minister, Ambulai Johnson and the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Dr. Edward McClain were at the head of a number of government officials on hand to receive the President at the James Spriggs Payne Airport upon arrival.

The President left the country Monday morning for a one-day official visit to Conakry.