President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf says the recent construction of a road linking Belle Yella to the rest of the country reinforces her Government's commitment to providing hope to areas which have been neglected in the past.

She said this at her Foreign Ministry Office on January 14 while congratulating the Ministry of Public Works and contractors for the road project.

The decision to spend Christmas in Belle Yella, the President said, went beyond just the fulfillment of a promise to the people of the area. She said it represents a transformation for Belle Yellans, who will enjoy the benefits of connectivity.

"The joy you brought to the children and the farmers who will now have an opportunity to transport their produce, goes well beyond the fulfillment of a promise," the President told officials of the Ministry of Public Works and staff as well as contractors of the BopoluBelle Yella Road Project.

Speaking Thursday during a meeting to express appreciation to the team for the road project, the President urged the Public Works Ministry to continue work on the road to ensure that it continues to benefit the people.

Public Works Minister, Samuel Kofi Woods, thanked the Liberian President for her vision to transform the country.

Minister Woods said the inspiration, motivation and determination demonstrated by the President was a major factor in accomplishing what at some point during the construction work seemed impossible.

He expressed hope that the collective effort demonstrated by the workers would help as a driving force to build Liberia.

Minister Woods also assured the President that work is continuing on the road to install a bridge on the Tuma River. Work, he said, is also continuing on five other water crossings. Minister Woods said culverts are also being installed to ensure proper drainage on the road.

The contractor and CEO of Pealat Liberia, Inc., Praise Tony Lawal, also thanked the President for her leadership.

Mr. Lawal said he was happy to be a part of the history-marking event. "It is not just about money; the fact that I was part of an effort to fulfill a mission by our President brings me the greatest satisfaction," he emphasized, beaming with pride.

Certificates of appreciation were later presented to contractors of the project by the President in appreciation for their hard work.

The road linking Belle Yella to the rest of the country was connected on Christmas day.

The President and entourage, including American Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Chinese Ambassador Zhou Yuxiao, walked for about two hours to reach Belle Yella as Public Ministry staff and contractors worked around the clock to ensure that the area was connected by motor road in keeping with the President's promise.