Your Excellency President Boakai, Mr. Speaker Koons, Madame President Pro Tempore Karnga-Lawrence, Madame Chief Justice Youh, Ministers, Ambassadors, Distinguished guests, dear friends, fellow Americans,
Ladies and Gentlemen. All protocols observed.
Ambassador Toner expressed his honor in welcoming attendees to the celebration of the 249th birthday of the United States. He acknowledged the performance by the United States Air Force band, Wings of Swing.
Ambassador Toner extended gratitude to President Boakai for attending and celebrating the partnership between the United States and Liberia. He praised Liberia's successful campaign to join the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member, highlighting it as an affirmation of Liberia's emergence as a democratic leader globally.
The ambassador emphasized the enduring friendship and strategic ties between the United States and Liberia. He noted that while their connection remains strong, they are on the brink of a new period in their mutual history.
Ambassador Toner discussed a shift in U.S. policy towards Africa, engaging African nations like Liberia as commercial partners rather than aid recipients. He acknowledged USAID's work over 64 years in strengthening Liberia but pointed out that prioritizing development assistance over commercial engagement had its costs.
He stressed trade instead of aid as a solution to many long-term challenges facing Liberia. By increasing U.S. exports and investment in Africa, mutual prosperity could be achieved. Ambassador Toner aligned this approach with President Boakai's ARREST agenda aimed at creating opportunities for Liberians.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Toner expressed confidence in achieving shared goals under President Boakai’s and President Trump’s leadership through increased economic development and mutual prosperity.
Thank you all for coming today and may God bless the United States of America and the Republic of Liberia.
Happy Independence Day