President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said India sees the Africa of today as a continent that is illuminated by the freedom, optimism and confidence that its people have in the power of their own potential.
President Mukherjee who hosted a banquet yesterday in honour of the President of Liberia, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at Rashtrapati Bhavan said Africans were guided by the wisdom of their ancestors, enthused by the vigour of their young generations, sustained by their rich diversity and natural resources and inspired by the vast horizons opening up to them, and there is no limit to what they can achieve in terms of progress and prosperity.
He also said the continent is today at a threshold, embarking on a path of sustained growth and poised to play a defining role on the world stage.
Welcoming the Liberian President on her first state visit to India, the President said her steadfast determination and inspiring leadership has helped Liberia become a land of opportunity.
He also said that she has dramatically altered the course for Liberia, and is a guiding light and an example of women's leadership that would inspire communities and nations not only in Africa but also across the globe.
The President further said the visit of the Liberian President to India is an occasion "for us to celebrate the centuries-old relationship between India and African nations."
He also said India believes that its experience could be of relevance to Liberia's socio-economic development, and added that India's development partnership with Liberia would respond to Liberia's requirements as it chooses its priorities and options - and forges its independent path of advancement and growth.
