Liberian president receives letter of credence from Brazilian ambassador

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf received the letter of credence from the first ambassador of Brazil, Adres Luis Azevedo Dos Santos, an official statement said on Friday. Both countries have enjoyed friendship since 150 years ago when Brazil recognized the sovereignty of Liberia, Sirleaf said in the statement one day after receiving the letter of credence from the Brazilian envoy. The Liberian leader said both countries signed an agreement in 2009 on technical cooperation, under which, a series of meaningful initiatives have been undertaken to provide training and scholarship opportunities for Liberians, especially in the areas of public administration and agriculture. She praised Brazil for its role in international affairs. "We are aware of the leadership role Brazil continues to play on behalf of the 'Group of 77' and developing nations in trade negotiations and financial issues in international forums," she said. "We are also conscious of the policies of the Brazilian Government of forging strategic partnership between Brazil and Africa and for expanding and deepening relations with African countries," she added.