President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a Congratulatory Message to her colleague, the President of the Republic of France, His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Macron, on that country’s 228^th National Day on July 14.

Bastille Day is the common name given in English-speaking countries/lands to the French National Day, which is celebrated on July 14 each year.

The French National Day commemorates the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, a turning point of the French Revolution, as well as the Fête de la Fédération which celebrated the unity of the French people on July 14, 1790. Celebrations are held throughout France. The oldest and largest regular military parade in Europe is held on the morning of July 14, on the Champs-Élysées in Paris in front of the President of the Republic, along with other French officials and foreign guests.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf, on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia and personally, extended sincere best wishes to His Excellency Mr. Emmanuel Macron, the Government and people of France and said the storming of the Bastille, 228 years ago is symbolic of the country’s resolve to propagate the ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity.  

The Liberian leader said the day has earned itself respect and recognition throughout the world, as the nation continues to emphasize on vital international challenges, counting terrorism, hasty environmental degradation, and the insurance of world stability through support for peace and security.

“Joining you in celebrating this propitious occasion, we recognize with gratitude, the rewarding relations our two nations and peoples continue to enjoy.  As we strive to fully implement the SDGs by 2030, we look forward to continued collaborations in many spheres including human rights, peace and security, and other aspect of development,” President Sirleaf said, adding that it is her desire that together both countries will explore new areas of cooperation, mainly in the private sector, to the mutual benefits of the two countries.

President Sirleaf wished for the personal wellbeing of H.E. Mr. Macron and for the Government and people of France, peace, unity and prosperity.