President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has, on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia and in her own name, extended best wishes to His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, King of the Kingdom of Sweden, on the festive occasion commemorating his country’s National Day and Flag Day.

Since 1983, Sweden has celebrated its National Day on June 6. This is the date on which Gustav Vasa was crowned king in 1523, which laid the foundation of Sweden as an independent state, and on which a new, important constitution was adopted in 1809.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf said that she is pleased to note that relations between Liberia and the Kingdom of Sweden have seen unprecedented growth in recent years, characterizing in the strong bond of friendship between the two countries.

“The exponential height in our relations has been reflection of the several high-level engagements by our respective governments, one of which saw the remarkable visit of Ms. Isabella Lovin, Minister of International Development and Cooperation,” the Liberian leader stressed in her message and reminded His Majesty that Ms. Lovin’s visit came at the peak of the Ebola outbreak in Liberia.

“Sweden stood by Liberia during that difficult period as a demonstration of the significance of true friendship. We do also appreciate Sweden’s invaluable support to the electrification project of Liberia through significant contribution to the refurbishment of the Mount Coffee hydro-plant and the decentralization program of Liberia, which has begun positively impacting the livelihood of ordinary Liberians,” President Sirleaf noted.

The Liberian leader said she is convinced that given the cordiality of both nations’ relations, authorities in the two countries will do all to enhance same to other areas especially in upholding their shared values, tied around promoting world peace, security and quality.

President Sirleaf then wished His Majesty King Carl XVI good health, and for the people of Sweden success and prosperity.