U.S. Ambassador Commends Liberian Hospitality

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ADNews- Bong County, Liberia: U.S. Ambassador to Liberia Mark Toner has reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to deepening its partnership with Liberia, emphasizing grassroots development and economic investment during a visit to Bong.

By Benjamin Quaye Johnson benjaminqjohnson@gmail.com

Speaking to journalists after meetings with local officials and community leaders, Ambassador Toner expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality he received, recalling his previous experience in the country as a Peace Corps volunteer.

“I want to thank the Superintendent, the Mayor, and especially all the village elders for the warm welcome I’ve received here. It’s truly amazing,” Ambassador Toner said. “The hospitality of the Liberian people never ceases to surprise me; it’s something very special.”

 

The Ambassador’s trip is part of a broader initiative to engage with communities outside Monrovia, allowing him to better understand the challenges and opportunities at the local level.

“I can’t remain in Monrovia all the time and truly understand the challenges facing areas like Bong County,” he noted. “By traveling to these communities, I get to speak with leaders and residents and gain a clearer picture of both the problems and the potential solutions.”

Toner praised local authorities for their efforts to unite communities and encourage citizen participation in development processes, pointing to their commitment as a model for sustainable progress.

“I deeply believe in grassroots development,” Toner said. “People can bring in funding, but without the investment and buy-in of the local population, you won’t achieve sustainability.”

While acknowledging the progress Liberia has made in political governance, including three peaceful presidential elections, Ambassador Toner emphasized the need to match these political achievements with economic development.

“Now we need to see the same kind of progress on the economic front,” he stated. “How do we create jobs for young people? How do we attract investment? How do we grow the economy? These are the questions we are working on together.”

Toner clarified that the U.S. approach in Liberia is focused on long-term partnership rather than short-term aid.

“I don’t come here handing out aid indiscriminately except for small symbolic gifts,” he said. “What I want to emphasize is that the United States is committed to building a long-term relationship with Liberia.”

The Ambassador’s visit signals a continued focus by the U.S. government on fostering stability and shared prosperity through strategic cooperation, inclusive development, and meaningful local engagement.