after a devastating earthquake that hit that country. Over two hundred thousand people died in the aftermath of the quake, with millions of dollars worth of properties destroyed. Millions of others are left homeless while scores were left injured.
Speaking at a press conference at the United Nations Conference Center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during the 14th Extraordinary Session of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, President Sirleaf however stated that the decision for Haitians to be re-settled in other countries including Liberia must be a voluntary decision.
The Liberian leader indicated that lot of Haitians once lived in Liberia and as part of the International Community, Liberia welcomes any Haitian who will want to re-settle in Liberia, emphasizing that “This must be done only on a voluntary basis”.
President Sirleaf regretted the unfortunate situation of the Haitian people and once again expressed Liberia’s condolence to the Government and people of that country. 80% of the population of Haiti is black descendant of former African slaves.
Meanwhile, the Liberian leader has welcomed the peace efforts in neighboring Guinean Conakry. She said as Chair of the Mano River sub-regional organization, she participated in every efforts aimed at bring peace to that country.
She praised the efforts of Burkina Faso President, Blaise Campore and noted that from her view, Guinea was heading to recovery.
