Monrovia – President Sirleaf has paid tribute to the gallantry of United Nations Peacekeepers in ensuring peace and security in Liberia and for returning the country to the path of reconstruction.
She praised the peacekeepers for the restoration of stability in Liberia and recounted the enormous sacrificial contributions made to help Liberia attain peace.
She recalled the many days of turmoil; noting that it took our African brothers and sisters as well as international peacekeepers to come to our rescue to save us from ourselves.
According to an Executive Mansion release, President Sirleaf made the remarks on Monday, May 29, 2017 during a solemn ceremony marking International UN Peacekeepers Wreath Laying cum Flag Raising Day under the theme: “Investing in Peace Around the World” held at the Pan African Plaza.
The ceremony brought together senior government officials, the United Nations family, members of the Diplomatic Corps, international partners, non-governmental organizations and the media.
President Sirleaf noted that Liberia’s celebration of 11 years of uninterrupted peace came as the result of the ultimate sacrifices made by peacekeepers that came to Liberia not only from Africa but from countries around the world. She said the peacekeepers have since worked with Liberia as partners to ensure we reconstruct, rebuild and regain our international status.
The Liberian leader also expressed delight over Liberia’s international participation in the United Nations Peace Mission serving in Mali for their contribution. She laid wreath in remembrance of those who lost their lives serving the United Nations.
For his part, the Special Representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Farid Zarif commended President Sirleaf for the many positive changes taking place in Liberia.
He assured the Liberian leaders that the United Nations Mission will remain steadfast in its commitment toward the people of Liberia.
He furthered that the consolidation of peace and stability has reached to the point that the Liberia National Police, Armed Forces of Liberia and other components of the national security are now discharging their responsibilities with success and confidence.
The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers offers an opportunity to pay tribute to both uniformed and civilian personnel for their invaluable contributions to the work of the UN and to honor peacekeepers that lost their lives serving under the United Nations flag – since 1948.
This year’s colorful parade included 150 troops from different military contingents, who were joined by representatives of the Liberian National Police, Armed Forces of Liberia and Liberia Immigration Service.