Monrovia, Liberia - President George Manneh Weah has expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, the Government and people of the United States for the opportunity granted Liberians on the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), to stay in the U.S. for another year.

The Liberian leader also commended the United States Embassy accredited near Monrovia, headed by Ambassador Christine Elder, for the role played in making the process a success.

According to President Weah, the decision to allow Liberians on DED live in the U.S. until March 2019, has brought a great deal of relief, not only to them as direct beneficiaries, but their  families and friends back home; and it serves as a testament of the longstanding partnership between Liberia and the United States.

President Weah expressed hope that the concerned Liberians will utilize the extension of the DED to contribute to the American society in the most positive way and continue to be law-abiding residents.

The Liberian leader said the gesture clearly speaks to the U.S. government’s unwavering commitment to upholding the bond of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

It may be recalled that President Trump recently directed the Departments of State and Homeland Security to bring an end to a humanitarian program that has allowed some Liberian nationals to have temporary residence in the United States. 

The grant of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Liberians who would otherwise be returned from the U.S. was last extended by President Obama. However, it was due to expire on March 31, 2018. President Trump had ordered that the deadline be extended for one more year as part of a "wind-down" effort before DED is officially terminated for Liberian nationals.