President George Manneh Weah has commended the Government and People of the United Arab Emirates for the many projects being undertaken since his ascendency to the President in 2018 such areas like health, infrastructural development, sports, capacity building and agriculture and seeks more investment opportunities in the area of mining, tourism and agriculture for the mutual benefits of both countries.
President Weah made the commendation on Saturday, March 26, 2022 while speaking at the Expo Dubai 2022, Dubai Expedition Center, where 192 different countries around the world are attending the maiden edition of the conference to find new and innovative ways to ensure the attainment of sustainability in the world.
The President said UAE is currently financing the construction of a modern hospital complex in Western Liberia, as well as a state of the art sports and recreational park, the Unity Sports Park, being built in central Monrovia as well as aiding with asphalt pavement of a road project leading to and through Liberia’s northern Lofa County by providing additional funding support.
“As you are aware, Expo 2020 Dubai has brought together 192 countries, with visitors from all around the world, under the central theme of “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”. With three additional sub-themes of “Opportunity, Mobility, and Sustainability”, it has convened the global community here in Dubai, and is inspiring people around the world to work together in new ways to create a sustainable future”, the President said.
He said that being the first mega-event of its kind in the Middle-Eastern region, the Expo 2020 Dubai program has also provided a unique global platform for presenting new and innovative solutions that have the potential to transform the lives of people of all races and backgrounds, in spite of the ongoing global economic and health challenges which face the world today”, he said.
President Weah who had in the earlier part of his speech had that the leadership of the United Arab Emirates and the Organizers of Expo 2020 Dubai for the gracious hospitality provided to him and his, delegation since their arrival and the excellent arrangements made for their comfort and safety,that you have made for our comfort and safety said he was very pleased and proud to note that this is the first time in the history of World Expos that Liberia is truly represented by having its own Pavilion.
“Thanks to the “One Nation, One Pavilion” policy of the organizers of Expo 2020 Dubai, my country has been given the opportunity to share with the world its business and investment opportunities; to showcase our rich culture and history as the first Independent African Republic; and to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership that we enjoy with the United Arab Emirates”, he said.
The President who was visibly excited at the program said that the theme of Liberia’s Pavilion is “LIBERIA IS OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS”, which embraces the idea that trade and investments are essential ingredients for sustainable national economic growth and development.
“Liberia seeks to expand its potential in many areas, including the mining sector that it has been traditionally known for across the world. However, the emerging fields of tourism, agriculture and fisheries are ones that have yet to be exploited. I therefore use this opportunity to urge my UAE brothers to come to Liberia and tap into these traditional and virgin sectors, which will in turn help us fill Liberia’s huge infrastructure deficit and foster economic development. I invite you to join us in developing a prosperous business climate in Liberia”, the elated President said.
President Weah recounted a fond memory he has for UAE linking it to his playing days in the country and said his experiences garnered there inspired him to get involved with leadership back home in Liberia to bring about change and to improve the lives of his people. He said he therefore seeks to maintain that relationship with “his brothers”, particularly the ruler of Dubai and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“Sheikh Mohammed has been there with me ever since I signed for Al Jazira Football Club about 20 years ago in Abu Dhabi. I consider him a brother and a dear friend. I am confident that the unique relationship we share will continue to be beneficial to both our countries and that the bilateral ties that bound both countries will be further strengthened”.
President Weah also used the occasion to share with the audience about the year-long celebration of the Bicentennial Anniversary which marks 200 years since the arrival of freed slaves on the shores of Liberia and said that journey laid the foundation for Liberia.
“So as we showcase our potential on this National Day, we want to inform all participating countries that Liberia is open for business, and that the potential can be transformative and mutual. Together, we can make Expo 2020 Dubai an unforgettable experience that will inspire both present and future generations.
“Let me assure you that Liberia looks forward to working in close collaboration with the United Arab Emirates to deliver on the promise of Expo 2020 Dubai”, he concluded.
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