The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon has welcomed the President of the National Assembly of Cรดte dโIvoire, Rt. Hon. Adama Bictogo, as part of high-level parliamentary engagements aimed at deepening regional cooperation through the newly proposed Mano River Union (MRU) Parliament.
Speaker Koon underscored the significance of establishing a parliamentary union under the MRU, calling it a monumental step toward enhancing legislative collaboration among member states. He praised the collective vision and commitment demonstrated by all participating delegations, emphasizing that the initiative reflects a shared desire for unity, peace, and sustainable development across the sub-region.
Recalling previous diplomatic engagements, Speaker Koon reaffirmed Liberiaโs dedication to fostering stronger inter-parliamentary ties and championing leadership that reflects the diversity and unity of the MRU countries. โThis initiative marks a turning point. We are no longer limiting the Mano River dialogue to ministerial levelsโtoday, we are extending that collaboration to lawmakers, the true representatives of our people,โ he said.
In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Adama Bictogo expressed heartfelt gratitude to Speaker Koon and the members of the Liberian House of Representatives for their warm hospitality and visionary leadership.
โThis is the first time we are witnessing the Mano River Union dialogue take place at the parliamentary level. I am deeply honored and excited by this bold step, which we discussed just moments ago and are now seeing materialize,โ said President Bictogo.
He also conveyed apologies on behalf of his delegation for missing the previous dayโs events due to unforeseen travel disruptions, including a last-minute flight cancellation by Brussels Airlines. โThrough you, Honorable Speaker, I extend my sincere apologies to the other speakers and participants for our absence. It was due to circumstances beyond our control,โ he stated.
President Bictogo highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and geographical bonds shared among MRU countries. โWhen I landed in Liberia, I felt as if I was homeโthe landscape, the people, and the shared culture remind us that we are truly one family.โ
He concluded by reaffirming his delegationโs full support for the meetings and activities ahead. โYou are our host, and we are your guests. Whatever schedule you propose, we will gladly follow. We are here for this very purpose.โ
