Two Ambassadors Present Letters Of Credence
Monrovia, Liberia - The President of the Republic, H.E. Dr. George Manneh Weah has received letters of credence from the ambassadors of the Vatican Embassy and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The two diplomats who submitted their Letters of Credence Wednesday, January 18, 2023 were Archbishop Walter Erbi, Apostolic Nuncio Vatican Ambassador and Marie Helene Okitundu Ayaki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In brief remarks, President Weah welcomed Archbishop Erbi to Liberia and expressed optimism that his presence would help re-energize and strengthen the ties subsisting between the Vatican and Liberia.
The President historicized the relationship between Liberia and the Vatican, which he said now spans several years. He praised the Catholic Church’s contributions to Liberia in the area of education and health.
“It is my belief that your stay as well as the working relationship between us will be successful during your incumbency,” the President stressed.
President Weah used the occasion to extend heartfelt condolences to the Pope Francis and Vatican family for the loss of Pope Benedict XVII.
In response, Archbishop Walter Erbi, Apostolic Nuncio Vatican Ambassador, thanked the President for the warmth reception accorded him and acknowledged how far the relationship between the two institutions has come.
He promised his full commitment to working with the government to enhance the existing ties between the Vatican, adding that with his presence in Liberia, the Catholic Church which caters to the wellbeing of humanity, would endeavor to seek the wellbeing of the citizens.
In a related development, President Weah also welcomed Amb. Marie Helene Okitundu Ayaki of the Democratic Republic of Congo to Liberia.
Dr. Weah thanked Ambassador Okitundu for her preference and for upholding the relationship between the two countries.
The President expressed hope that peace would return to the DRC, promising to do everything within his powers to ensure that peace reigns in DR Congo.
Amb. Akayi said she was happy to be back in Liberia and at the Embassy, where she once worked for 16 years as Charge d'Affairs.
She said she is ready to work at the Embassy, which has been opened since 1966.
