The Liberian leader made specific reference to its assistance in attracting critical private sector investments in mining, professional contractual service in construction, and support for critical infrastructure in the health and education sectors.

She also highlighted China’s support to the country’s peace and security through the deployment of a sizeable contingent of Chinese military personnel in UNMIL, equipping and expanding the capacity of the Armed Forces of Liberia through donated construction equipment, and most especially, their significant role played in Liberia’s fight against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).

According to a presidential press statement issued here Monday, the Liberian leader made the commendation at the Chinese Embassy in Oldest Congo Town at the weekend on the occasion marking the 66th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

President Sirleaf recalled that during the Ebola outbreak, China was the first friendly country to provide humanitarian support in the form of material supplies and equipment.

“China also provided a chartered flight loaded with medical equipment and materials valued at US$1,800,000 to jumpstart the construction of Ebola Treatment Units (ETUs),” she said.

The Liberian leader added that China constructed a 100-bed ETU worth US$5 million and provided a team of medical experts to operate the Unit.

“This very needed response builds upon the important contribution in the health sector through the construction and equipping of a modern hospital in one of our highly concentrated counties,” President Sirleaf.

She noted that Liberia and China have enjoyed a long and cherished relationship spanning several decades; noting that two years ago this was further consolidated by the passage of a resolution by both Houses of the National Legislature reaffirming the “One China Policy” as the political basis for the country’s relationship and demonstrating that Liberians are supportive of the friendship and cooperation enjoyed with China.

On the occasion marking the National Day celebrations, President Sirleaf extended, through the Ambassador, congratulations and warmest felicitations on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia, to President Xi Jinping and the Government and gallant people of the PRC.
LINA PR/TSS/PTK