Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea renew sub-regional union

Three mineral rich West African countries --Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea -- on Thursday took further initiatives at renewing their ties in Liberia's capital Monrovia within the framework of the Mano River Union (MRU).

Liberia's Planning and Economic Affairs Minister Toga McIntosh hosting the 16th Ministerial Council Meeting said, "The wind of peace is spreading over the Union again ..."

Acknowledging that peace among the three countries is being strengthened, McIntosh said, "programs that would impact the lives of our citizens are lacking."

He called for a consensus mechanism for the 2.6 million U.S. dollars arrear clearance and a "heavily weighted budget that will improve people's lives."

Guinea's International Cooperation Minister Haja Fatoumata Kaba said, " There is a strong sign of our commitment to rekindle our activities.. for a strong and dynamic MRU." Guinea, she said, will foster sisterly relations with her neighbors.

Sierra Leone's Development and Economic Planning Minister M.B. Daramy said, "the MRU is still important for sub-regional integration...and it is time to forge ahead with activities that are mutually beneficial to the three states."

Opening the ministerial meeting, Liberian Vice President Joseph Boakai said, "We must strengthen our resolves and muster the necessary courage to achieve genuine reconciliation, confidence- building and cooperation."

The MRU was established in 1973 between Liberia and Sierra Leone to form a customs union for trade,commerce and socioeconomic development among citizens of the two countries. Guinea later joined the union in 1980.

Source: Xinhua