PHOTO: US Embassy Charge d’ Affaires Cathrine Rodriguez (middle) with AFL Chief of Staff, Gen. Prince C. Johnson, III
The Charge d’ Affaires of the United States Embassy near Monrovia, Catherine Rodriguez, has expressed satisfaction over the apolitical approach being exhibited by the Ministry of National Defense and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), as Augustine Octavius repots.
The American diplomat’s statement comes in the wake of what is seen as a growing threat to constitutional democracy in West Africa, with a rise in military coups in several countries, Niger being the latest.
“I am very impressed on hearing that the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) is an apolitical institution,” the US Embassy Charge d’ Affaires noted during a working visit to Liberia’s Defense Minister and other top defense officials at the Ministry of National Defense on Monday.
Madam Rodriguez further stated that, “AFL is very fortunate to have a fantastic arrangement with the Michigan National Guard and look forward to continuing said relationship.”
She further hinted that an election that is recognized by the international community is in Liberia’s best interest.
Also speaking, Minister Ziankahn welcomed Madam Rodriguez to the Ministry, and elaborated on the great partnership the Liberian government has with the U S Government, ranging from assisting Liberia’s Defense Sector, with operational and tactical trainings and logistical support as well as intelligence sharing geared towards regional security stability.
Minister Ziankahn assured the United States Government that the AFL will continue to be apolitical at all times.
He informed Madam Rodriguez that the AFL is working with other security apparatuses of Liberia’s joint security to ensure that Liberia have an apolitical joint security sector.
AFL Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Prince C. Johnson, III thanked Madam Rodriguez for the visit on behalf of the men and women in arms.
Gen. Johnson informed the US diplomat that the AFL looks forward to continuing the existing relationship between Liberia and the United States of America.