Monrovia – The outgoing World Bank Country Director for Liberia, Pierre Laporte, has commended Liberia for what he termed notable achievements that have transformed the country into a more stable and peaceful nation.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972)[email protected]
Mr. Laporte is not only the outgoing Country Director for Liberia but also for Ghana and Sierra Leone, having served four and a half years in this role.
Speaking during his farewell dinner organized by the Weah-led government at the EJS Ministerial Complex on December 5, 2023, Mr. Laporte stated that the peaceful conduct of Liberia’s 2023 Presidential and Legislative Elections demonstrates that Liberians are on an irreversible path toward development and prosperity.
“One notable achievement for Liberia during my tenure was when the country graduated from the classification of a fragile, conflict, and violence (FCV) state in 2022,” Laporte said.
He added, “Liberia must sustain these gains to remain on the pedestal of growth and prosperity. And for this, good governance, transparency, and respect for the rule of law must continue to prevail.”
Laporte also praised President Weah for his exemplary leadership and honorable and dignified acceptance of the results, ensuring an orderly transition of power.
“As I leave for a new assignment at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington DC, I remain confident that Liberia will continue to distinguish itself among nations of the world as a peaceful and democratic country, of which all Liberians should be proud,” he said.
Laporte added, “I am leaving with fond memories of this beautiful country with lots of untapped resources, including a long stretch of the Atlantic coastal belt, and great tourism potential.”
In conclusion, the outgoing World Bank Country Director for Liberia, Ghana, and Sierra Leone complimented the Minister of Finance and Development Planning for what he termed as an excellent working relationship.
“I cannot end without saying a special word of appreciation to Honorable Samuel Tweah, Minister of Finance and Development Planning. Minister Tweah has not only been an excellent counterpart, but I will remember him as a pragmatic, bold, and visionary Finance Minister, not hesitating to put his country first with difficult reforms and decisions when others would have shied away.”
