NEW YORK, USA – In his Wednesday’s address at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) 78th Regular Session, in New York, USA, President George Weah of Liberia outlined his administration’s achievements, announcing among others that under his watch, his country has made progress in several areas.
Mr. Weah reported that despite the slowdown in global economic growth continues to be a challenge, over the past 12 months, his country has made progress in areas, ranging from health to education, gender equality, and infrastructural development.
The Liberian leader, who bragged about his administration’s achievements, noted particularly that he was proud of the Liberian government’s achievements in reducing maternal mortality rates, increasing gender parity in school enrollment, and elevating the country’s overall health and well-being, while appreciating the UN for directing its attention to issues of global health.
“We emphasize unity of purpose, as we address challenges aimed at providing basic services to all peoples,” Weah bragged.
He disclosed that his administration is committed to continue paving way for the growth and development of Liberia’s youthful population, which he puts at more than 60 percent, indicating that the country’s future rests on the shoulders of its youth.
He further informed the UN General Assembly that his administration being cognizant that structural transformation drives prosperity, the Liberian government is focused on infrastructural development with roads and energy playing a critical part.
“Thanks to the support of our many partners, we remain unwavering in our commitment to explore means to further the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, as it represents the roadmap towards prosperity,” noted Weah, who pointed out that he supports UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ proposed SDG stimulus plan.
He then made the call for the actualization of the 500 billion dollars per year in order to boost sustainable development for developing countries through tackling the high cost of debt and rising risks of debt distress; scaling of affordable long-term financing for development; and expanding contingency financing to countries in need.
On behalf of Liberia, he lauded the UN System for its continued engagement and support in consolidating the country’s peace and seeking to address emerging challenges in Liberia.
He pledged Liberia’s continuous cooperation and collaboration with the UN as the country continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions and infrastructure.
“Five years ago, on the occasion of my first address to this august assembly, we informed you of a peaceful democratic transition that had just taken place in Liberia,” recalled Weah, who added that with support from the UN and friends of Liberia, his administration has kept the democratic torch burning in the country.
“We have maintained peace and security. We have protected human rights and the rights of the media to operate peacefully and freely,” Weah emphasized, indicating that under his leadership, Liberians have enjoyed the full exercise of their constitutional rights, and that the country is well on course of consolidating its democratic credentials.
