The President of the United States of America, George W. Bush and his wife yesterday (Thursday, Feburary 21) paid a one day visit to Liberia.
During his visit, as a tradition of our country detates, a key of the City of Monrovia was presented to the American President as a sign of welcome.
During the ceremony, President Johnson-Sirleraf said, "Let me say how pleased we are to welcome President Bush, Mrs. Bush, Secretary Rice and all the members of this delegation. It is a great honor for Liberia to receive them. And they've received a very warm welcome from the Liberian people, from our young people, from our students, who lined the route and waved and showed flags. We're just so pleased and honored. Thank you, President Bush, for making this trip".
For his part, President Bush in response noted, "President, thanks. I've been looking forward to coming here ever since you extended the kind invitation to me. I do want to thank the people of Liberia for the warm welcome that we have received. I loved all the smiles and enthusiasm along the route.
Most importantly, I want the people of Liberia to know, Madam President, the United States stands with you. We want to help you recover from a terrible period. We want you to build lives of hope and peace. And under your leadership, that's exactly what's happening. It's my honor to have presented you with the National Medal of Freedom; it's the highest civilian award a President can give, and I did so because of your courage and your leadership. And we are so excited to be with you.
The presentation of the Key of the City was made by the Lord Mayor of the City, Madam Ophelia Hoff-Saytumah.
While in the city, President Bush and his entourage visited several places, including Ministry of Foreitgn Affairs; the current seat of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, the University of Liberia main campus, the burnt Executive Mansion and the Barclay Training Center.
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