(Monrovia. Liberia): The President of the Republic, H. E. George Manneh Weah, has congratulated U.S. President-elect Joe Biden following his victory in that country's recent Presidential election. Before his historic win, Biden previously served as Vice President under former President Barack Obama.

The Liberian leader also congratulated Senator Kamala Harris, who was elected as the first female and first black Vice President of the United States. He said Vice President-Elect Harris' election will serve as an inspiration to all women and people of color that they can become whatever they aspire to with determination, commitment and hard work.

President Weah said the American President-elect was assuming the leadership of the United States at very challenging time, when the world is faced with a global health crisis. He called on Americans to forge ahead in "peace and unity", a reference to the polarized political environment that occasioned the period of electioneering. 

"As Liberia's traditional ally, we stand ready to further enhance and rekindle our long, historic and unique bilateral relations," President Weah said. The two countries have had a longstanding special relationship dating back to the 1800s, when America played a crucial role in Liberia's foundation.

Stronger ties between both countries in recent years have given rise to American support for Liberian institutions, as a means of helping to consolidate the Liberian democracy. But there has also been cooperation in other areas, including education, health and infrastructure.

The Liberian Leader is the latest of many around the world who have already congratulated the U.S. President-elect.