Monrovia –President George Manneh Weah, returned to the country Thursday, January 10, 2019 following a three-day official visit to the Republic of Senegal where he and his Senegalese counterpart, President Macky Sall, held fruitful bilateral discussions.
The Liberian leader told reporters upon arrival at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) that he and President Macky Sall held discussions on several bilateral issues, including the aviation industry—specifically on how air traffic could resume between Monrovia and Dakar.
President Weah said such an initiative could lead Air Senegal to opening a Monrovia route that could benefit citizens of both countries in terms of overcoming inter-country travel challenges.
The President described the Dakar visit as positive and rewarding.
“I am not in the politics of Senegal,” he said, weighing in February 24 elections in response to a reporter’s question. “I hope the elections in that country will be peaceful in order to sustain the gains made in the country over the years.”
President Weah also spoke about his participation in the CAF-organized African Footballer of the Year Award ceremonies. Liverpool striker Mohammed Salah of Egypt won the award.
The President said the award ceremony invoked nostalgia of the fond days of his soccer career, particularly when he won the award. “Indeed, it was a memorable moment,” the President said.
“What I experienced last night reminds me about the work I did over the years. It was not an easy time those days when black man was not accepted; when racism was at its peak in the soccer world. But we were able to work hard and overcome it.”
President Weah said as a former ace player he felt elated being recognized by Confederation of African Football and other stakeholders of the game in an elaborate manner.
“That should tell you that I am a wonderful person and I hope Liberians will know that they have a person in Africa that they can trust and make effective use of,” the Liberian leader added.
While speaking to journalists at the RIA, the President also extended condolences to the Armed Forces of Liberia and the family of fallen soldier, Steve Joe. He asked the AFL and Steve’s family to be strong in the face of such a huge loss.