The Ambassadors of the Russian Federation and Italy have welcomed the resumption of diplomatic ties between their countries and Liberia. Speaking last Friday when they presented their Letters of Credence, in separate ceremonies, to the Liberian President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the diplomats promised to redouble their efforts to accelerate bilateral cooperation between their respective countries and Liberia.

Russian Ambassador Vladimir V. Barbin, speaking of cooperation between his country and Liberia, pointed to the Putu Iron Ore Mining Company in Grand Gedeh County. He said the successful exploration by a Russian mining company of the Putu Mines would attract more Russian investors to Liberia. Ambassador Barbin spoke of the need to support Liberia's reconstruction programs, indicating that the operations in Grand Gedeh would not only increase government's revenue base but create employment opportunities for Liberians, particularly those residing in the area.

Italian Ambassador Giancarlo Izzo informed the Liberian leader of his country's readiness to assist in the reconstruction of Liberia. Italy, he said, is already providing support to Liberia's agriculture sector through non-governmental organizations. Ambassador Izzo promised to encourage Italian entrepreneurs to invest in Liberia, to help attract more foreign investment in the country.

Welcoming the diplomats, President Johnson Sirleaf commended Russia and Italy for supporting Liberia's recovery program. The President recalled the cordial relations between Liberia and the two countries when Liberian students were awarded scholarships to study abroad.

She welcomed the renewal of diplomatic ties with Russia and Italy, and promised to continue to promote policies which would attract more private sector involvement in the economy of the country, which she described as the main engine of growth.

The presentation of the Letters of Credence by the Russian and Italian envoys followed the presentation, on Thursday, of the Letters of Credence by the Ambassadors of Sweden, the African Union, and the Netherlands.