President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a message of congratulations to the European Union (EU) on the occasion of the 66^th Anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.

The Schuman Declaration is the statement laid forward by the French foreign minister Robert Schuman on May 9, 1950. Inspired and for the most part drafted by Jean Monnet, this was a proposal to place Franco-German production of coal and steel under one common High Authority. The declaration is to be the founding text of European integration.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, the Liberian leader, in her message to the President of the European Council, His Excellency Donald Tusk, extended heartfelt congratulations and through him to the Governments and citizens of the European Union.

President Sirleaf recognized the growth in the relationship that exists between the Liberian Government and the European Union. “My Government acknowledges with a sense of satisfaction that relations with the EU is evolving exponentially,” she said, noting that engagements between the Liberian Government and the EU have endured in the face of geopolitical changes which have further strengthened the need for cooperation in all spheres including the promotion of peace and security, the fight against terrorism, illegal migration and the enhancement of green climate.

Joining the EU in celebrating the occasion, the Liberian leader reflected on the relevance of the Schuman Declaration, which she indicated, appeals to overcome age-old ethnic divisions and enhance peace and unity among countries of the EU.

President Sirleaf wished for the President of the European Council, Mr. Tusk, good health and success and for the Governments and people of the European Union a prosperous and unified Europe.