President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a message of congratulations to her counterpart, H.E. Mr. Johann N. Schneider-Ammann, President of the Swiss Confederation, the Government and people of the Swiss Confederation, on the occasion of their National Day.

August 1^st, is celebrated each year as Swiss National Day, the founding of the Swiss Confederation. Since 1891, the day has been celebrated as Swiss National Day. The date refers to a historic alliance concluded in 1291 by representatives of three cantons – Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden – to repel together the attacks of external enemies. This alliance was to become the focal point around which the Switzerland of today was built over the next 500 years.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf, on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia and in her own name, sent hearty congratulation to President Schneider-Ammann, the Government and people of the Swiss Confederation, as they celebrate the 725^th anniversary of the founding of Switzerland.

The Liberian leader expressed satisfaction that Liberia and Switzerland have marked decades of close friendship and cooperation through which they continue to achieve mutually rewarding benefits to their two countries and peoples. “Our perspectives on issues of international affairs continue to converge, particularly as we remain committed to the continued pursuit and promotion of world peace and prosperity,” she indicated.

She wished her Swiss counterpart continued good health and happiness, and for the Government and people of the Swiss Confederation, renewed peace and prosperity as they observe yet another milestone anniversary of the Federal Charter of 1291.