According to the U.S Diplomat, she shares with President Sirleaf the desire to see the young people of Liberia and Africa have a better future; pointing out, “I am not only an Ambassador but also a mother and as a mother I worry about the opportunities my children will have in order to build a positive future”.

She made the assertion at a joint press conference on the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia on Tuesday, July 29.

Ambassador Malac pointed out that as the world becomes interconnected, young people all over the world need to have a chance to a better future; adding, “As all of the leaders of Africa sit down with leaders of the United States, we will be able to come up with ways to build that better future.”

According to her, she hopes the US-Africa Summit will give the United States and Liberia the opportunity to strengthen the close relationship of both countries that is built on shared history and common goals, by building regional and continental understanding and cooperation.

The U.S Envoy said with the outbreak of the tragic Ebola Viral Disease, there are many issues that can only be addressed on a regional basis to bring these issues to a successful conclusion; adding, “this is the time when we need to put aside fear and trepidation and think about how we can achieve a greater good for the region”.

She disclosed that discussions at the summit will center on improving key areas that are considered critical to Africa’s future such as the expansion of trade and investment ties, engaging young African leaders, promoting inclusive sustainable development, expanding cooperation on peace and security and gaining a better future for Africa’s next generation.

According to the US Ambassador, the US-Africa Leadership Conference is the largest event any U.S President has held with African Heads of State and Government and that it will strengthen ties between the United States and one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest growing regions.

“When talking about the conference, President Obama said, “I see Africa as a fundamental part of our interconnected world partners with America on behalf of our children’s future and that this partnership must be grounded in mutual responsibility and respect,” the US diplomat noted.

She said as this year’s theme is “Investing in the Next Generation”, African leaders should use this summit as an opportunity to discuss ways of stimulating growth, unlock opportunities and create an enabling environment for the next generation; adding ,“focusing on the next generation is at the core of a government’s responsibility and work”.

By Prince Nagbe

LINA/PSN/TSS