Sweden's new development policy and Liberia's future opportunities
Liberia's and Africa's first woman president, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, is currently visiting Sweden. She is recognised for her authority, capacity and leadership. Ms Johnson-Sirleaf is here to discuss a number of issues, including Sweden's support to the mining and forestry industries, development cooperation, debt management and gender equality issues.
Photo: Mikael T. Eriksson/Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Among those Ms Johnson-Sirleaf has met is Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson.
Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson and Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
"It was a very successful event and we had the opportunity to discuss many issues that affect both our countries and developments in Africa. Particular rewarding were the discussions about Sweden's new development policy, above all in post-conflict countries, and Liberia's future opportunities," says Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson.
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf governs a country that - after 15 years of civil war that has left over 200,000 dead and more than a third of the population fleeing the country - is still facing a series of tough challenges. The lack of roads, water and electricity is a serious obstacle to all development. Ms Johnson-Sirleaf says that she see would like to see a greater commitment from Sweden, especially from the private business sector.
