Liberian President Receives German, Israeli Diplomats

African Press Agency
21 August 2007

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has received the letters of credence of the German and Israeli ambassadors accredited to the country and appealed to both countries to pursue cooperation as they did before the civil war.

Madam Johnson particularly appealed to Canadian businessmen to consider investing in Liberia’s mining and mineral sectors.

Speaking Monday when she received the letters of credence of the Ambassador to Canada accredited to Liberia Ambassador Marie Isabelle Massip, President Johnson Sirleaf said the mining and mineral industry of Liberia is gradually gaining momentum following the lifting of United Nations sanctions on the country.

" As you know, now that sanctions are lifted, we are trying to re-establish our mining activities. There are now so many biddings to start operations; we hope Canada with strong technical skills will take advantage of the opportunities," President Sirleaf said.

President Johnson Sirleaf hoped the tour of duty of Ambassador Massi would ensure the further strengthening of ties between Canada and Liberia.

"The government and people of Canada have admired your effort and determination to bring Liberia back on the path, and build the country on the principles of democracy and good governance," Ambassador Massip said.

She assured that her government would continue to work with thge United Nations and other bodies to assist Liberia.

Meanwhile, a presidential mansion press statement on Tuesday said President Sirleaf on Monday received the letters of credence of the new Israeli Ambassador to Liberia, Daniel Kadem.

Speaking at the occasion, the Liberia leader observed that relations between Israel and Liberia go back several years, during which this Middle East country has been a strong partner to the development of Liberia.

She said "Israel has always been there for Liberia at the level of the United Nations, providing support for the UN peacekeeping mission in Liberia and supporting NGO activities".

"Quite recently, Israel granted opportunity to over 100 Liberians who should have been deported to stay in that country. We are very thankful for that partnership," President Sirleaf told Ambassador Kadem.