MONROVIA – A high profile Diplomat with the Court of Justice, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, Nigeria has underscored the essence of cultural diplomacy in promoting social cohesion, international solidarity and greater unity which enhance regional and international development and cooperation among nations for the common good of their respective citizens.
Dr. William Deiyan Towah, Sr, Director of Finance and Administration of ECOWAS Court, Abuja, Nigeria made the assertion recently in Enugu State, Nigeria when he spoke at a colorful ceremony where he was bestowed with a high profile traditional chieftaincy title as Egwumba 1, which means, ‘Pride of the Land” by the Paramount ruler of Ibagwa Nike Kingdom of Enugu State, Nigeria, Dr. Emmanuel O. Ogwu on behalf of his community for his(Dr. Towah) tremendous support to humanity, peace, pan African unity and advancement of the cause of the emancipation of the African people as well as the promotion, development and cooperation within the ECOWAS subregion especially between Nigeria and Liberia.
According to a dispatch from Nigeria, Dr. Towah told the mammoth crowd who witnessed the occasion that the African culture appreciates the essence of God’s creation where in it accords respect and dignity to every human being on earth regardless of their socio-economic, political and social status, stressing those attributes have the potential to enhance development which the African people should embrace.
Dr. Towah who maintained that culture increasingly permeates international relations and foreign policies, said Cultural diplomacy is harnessed by countries to promote their cultural distinctiveness, thus enhancing the world’s cultural diversity while paving the way to cooperation and dialogue. He noted that in a globalized, interconnected world where countries are increasingly interdependent, cultural diplomacy can be critical to fostering peace and stability.
“By supporting mutual understanding, trust and exposure to cultural diversity, it enhances international relations in many areas of cooperation. This unique form of intercultural dialogue has the power to bolster and renew multilateral cooperation, beyond competing interests, to put forth global public goods, while also tackling some of the pressing issues of our time, such as disinformation, social inequalities, conflict and climate change.
“A lot of Nigerians and other African nationals have been part and parcel of the larger Liberian population back home and they are enjoying the generosity of a unique African tradition that binds people together as one family. In similar fashion, Liberians are living here and in other African countries pursuing legitimate businesses to empower themselves and their respective families under a cordial atmosphere.
“Let me hasten to acknowledge the invaluable contributions and sacrifices made by Nigeria during the protracted civil war which can never be wished away from the history of our country. It goes beyond mere regional solidarity but is indeed a sound testament of a bonding brotherhood entrenched in the African tradition of being a brother’s keeper.
“In similar vein, we appreciate Nigerians especially the historians who continue to remind us of Liberia’s unflinching role to end the Nigerian civil war which was fought between 1967 to 1970 and to ensure that there must be a united and one Nigeria. These two historical antecedents in both countries should serve as lessons to further hold us together as one family despite being from two independent states”, the seasoned diplomat said.
Dr. Towah who spoke extensively on culture said it is the lifeblood of a vibrant society, expressed in the many ways people tell their stories, celebrate, remember the past, entertain themselves, and imagine the future. “Our creative expression helps define who we are, and helps us see the world through the eyes of others. Africans participate in culture in many ways—as audiences, professionals, amateurs, volunteers, and donors or investors”, he said.
Earlier, Paramount ruler Ogwu who had received Dr. Towah and entourage having being led by the Council of King makers to the royal palace, showered encomiums on the Liberian born diplomat, and enumerated several reasons why the traditional council under his leadership saw it befitting to bestow the prestigious honor on Dr. Towah.
“I am delighted to host this very important occasion in this palace and to state very clearly that this is a rare moment for such an honor to be unanimously agreed upon to be given to someone who could be seen as far from our land but indeed dear to us as a people.
“I will regard him as a bridge between two cultures and people and a refined personality that has brought pride to both Nigeria and Liberia. He has supported many initiatives in our community, and Nigeria at large, he has promoted the pan African culture and solidarity, he has stood for the yearnings of the common man, he is a man of many parts in a positive way; I could be short of words to describe him in totality, but I am full of words to acknowledge what he has done and what he intends to do to promote cooperation and unity among our people”, the revered traditional ruler said.
Dr. Towah who is also a career civil servant has served in various capacities in the Liberian government including Deputy Minister for Administration. Ministry of Agriculture and Acting Minister respectively, Deputy Minister for Finance for Expenditure and Debt Management, Deputy Minister for Administration, Post and Telecommunications and Director General of the National Food Assistance Agency, Vice President for National Housing and Savings Bank, Managing Director of the National Housing Authority, Strategic Management Consultant/Advisor, Ministry of Public Works, among others.