President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, over the weekend, sent a congratulatory message to the Government and people of the Republic of Mauritius on the occasion commemorating the 49^th Independence Anniversary of that country.

Mauritius became an independent state within the Commonwealth on March 12, 1968, with a governor-general on the island representing the British monarch as head of state. In 1991 the legislature voted to transition to a republican form of government, and on March 12, 1992, Mauritius became a republic, with a president as head of state.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, in her message to the President of the Mauritius, His Excellency Mr. Ameenah Gurib, President Sirleaf extended, on behalf of Liberia, heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Government and people of Mauritius as they celebrate their 49th Independence anniversary.

She hoped and prayed that as Mauritius observed this historic occasion, Mr. Ameenah Gurib will continue to be endowed with the wisdom and vitality required to lead his people to nobler heights. 

The Liberian leader hoped that the cordial ties of friendship and cooperation subsisting between the two countries will be further strengthened for the mutual benefit of the two peoples.