The President of the Republic, H.E. Dr. George Manneh Weah, has emphasized the global importance of the United Nations (UN) and highlighted Liberia’s role in its formation 78 years ago.
President Weah stated that the UN is the only platform that can maintain global peace and security.
In a statement delivered on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, when he joined the UN family in Liberia to observe the 78th Anniversary of the organization, President Weah reminded the audience that the United Nations was established to uphold international peace and security and promote cooperation among nations on economic, social, and humanitarian issues.
He expressed pride in Liberia being one of the three African countries that signed the United Nations Charter, making it a founding member alongside 47 countries outside of Africa.
The President informed the audience that, since the signing of the UN charter, the organization has been relentless in its efforts to maintain world peace and security, improve social and economic conditions worldwide, and bridge the differences between nations for peaceful coexistence.
President Weah, therefore, used the occasion to reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to the aims, aspirations, and objectives of the UN both now and in the future.
“Liberia therefore reaffirms its belief in the United Nations as the global platform for peace, security, and harmony,” President Weah pledged.
He highlighted that this year’s theme, “Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals in Liberia Towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability for All,” is a call for Liberians to prioritize their efforts towards the 2030 Agenda.
“Liberia strongly believes that peaceful settlement of disputes is the best alternative to aggression or ‘might makes right’,” he said, adding: “Despite the severe challenges it has faced over the years, the United Nations has succeeded in holding the world together, which is a testament to its ability, quality, and potential.”
President Weah expressed Liberia’s firm belief that the UN has fulfilled its mission of saving future generations from wars, genocides, and misery. He emphasized the need for the United Nations to continue leading the world in restoring calm and peace in conflict-ridden regions.
Dr. Weah also stated that Liberia is committed to contributing to peacebuilding missions and mentioned the country’s participation in the United Nations Integrated Multidimensional Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
The Liberian Chief Executive announced Liberia’s endorsement of the Secretary-General’s Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) Initiative, which aims to strengthen peacekeeping through targeted mandates, safer operations, better-equipped and trained forces, and mobilizing support for political solutions.
He explained that the endorsement reflects Liberia’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda as outlined in the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD), with major objectives including job creation, infrastructure development, industrialization, accessible healthcare and education, and the maintenance of peace and security for future development.
“In light of this, my government has prioritized road connectivity, free education, and healthcare delivery,” stated Dr. Weah. “We have also ensured respect and protection of citizens’ inalienable rights, safeguarding human rights, press freedom, and the fight against corruption.”
He also noted how this year’s celebration coincides with Liberia’s political season, with the October 10 elections and the upcoming runoff election on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, for the election of the President.
President Weah expressed gratitude to the United Nations, partners, and friends for their support in achieving sustainable democracy in Liberia.
He pledged to continue honoring the trust placed in him to guide the process.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of Liberia: Executive Mansion.