President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent separate congratulatory messages to the Governments and Peoples of the Swiss Confederation and Niger on the occasions marking the Independence Anniversaries of those countries.

The Government and People of Switzerland Wednesday, August 1, 2012, commemorated the 721st Anniversary of that country's National Day while the Republic of Niger on Friday, August 3, 2012 officially commemorates its 52nd Independence Anniversary.

While expressing joy over the historic occasion, President Johnson Sirleaf, on behalf of Liberia extended warmest congratulations to Swiss President, Her Excellency Eveline Widmer-Schlumpf, and through her, to the Government and People of the Swiss Confederation.

President Johnson Sirleaf further expressed confidence that the bond of friendship and cordiality that have characterized the relations between both countries since the 19th Century will continue to grow in strength for the further enhancement of development cooperation between the two Governments.

The Liberian Leader also wished for President Widmer-Schlumpf good health and happiness, hoping that the People of the Swiss Confederation will enjoy continued peace and prosperity.

For Niger, Madam Johnson Sirleaf in her congratulatory message to His Excellency President Issoufou Mohamadou, on behalf of Liberia extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the President of Niger, and through him, to the Government and People of Niger on this great and historic occasion.

President Johnson Sirleaf further entertained the hope that as Liberia joins Niger in commemorating this momentous occasion, the bond of friendship between the two countries and governments will continue to be cemented in the years ahead.