(MONROVIA-LIBERIA-August 26, 2009): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has reiterated her pleasure over the return to Liberia of the United States Peace Corps Program.  Speaking Tuesday at a swearing-in ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the President said the Program has contributed immensely to Liberia’s development. The swearing-in ceremony, an Executive Mansion release quotes the Liberian leader as saying, is yet another manifestation of America’s enduring partnership with Liberia.

 20 response volunteers of the United States Peace Corps were sworn-in Tuesday at a ceremony held Tuesday at the Foreign Ministry.

 The oath swearing-in the 20 Peace Corps response volunteers was administered by the Charge d’Affaires of the United States Embassy, Madam Brooks Robinson. 

 Last year (August 15, 2008) a bilateral agreement was signed between the governments of the United States and Liberia to recommence the United States Peace Corps Program. The program began in 1962, but was brought to a halt due to Liberia’s protracted civil conflict.