The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Olubanke King-Akerele has praised France's assistance to Liberia in Debt Relief, and Poverty Reduction Strategy, (PRS) and also extolled the European Union for its numerous assistance to Liberia.

According to Foreign Ministry release, Minister King-Akerele made the statement when she received in audience the new French Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Gerard Lerome, and the new E.U. Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Attilio Pacifici.

The new French Ambassador presented his credentials to Minister King-Akerele on Monday, while the new EU Ambassador presented his credentials on Friday to the Foreign Minister at separate ceremonies which were attended by officials of the Foreign Ministry.

After the usual exchange of pleasantries, Minister King-Akerele welcomed the two Diplomats to Liberia and hoped that their tenures of duties in the country would be most fruitful and rewarding, noting that the Government looks forward to working with the two Seasoned Ambassadors.

Minister King-Akerele also named the awarding of 12 scholarships to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the teaching of the French language to Liberian diplomats and Students of the Foreign Service Institute. Speaking further, the Minister said Frence's assistance would undoubtedly assist Liberia's effort with the Mano River Union which also encompasses the French-speaking countries.

Responding, the French Ambassador, His Excellency Gerard Lerome disclosed that France's Foreign Minister, His Excellency Bernard Kouchner is concerned about the situation in the country.

According to him, the Foreign Minister of France has indicated that Liberia is caught in the middle of crisis in Guinea and the Ivory Coast, where conditions in both countries remain fragile, noting that if the people of Ivory coast fully participate in the pending election, it would have an adverse impact on Liberia.

But said the eruption of violence could have a domino effect in neighboring countries including Liberia, warning Liberia to remains alert and vigilante.