Press release,

UN Envoy meets Sierra Leonean authorities on the Mano River Union Bridge, Grand Cape Mount County

08 August 2006, Monrovia, Liberia – The Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Alan Doss, and the Minister of Defence, Mr. Brownie Samukai, together with UNMIL Deputy Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Muhammad Tahir, and other UNMIL and government officials today met with Sierra Leonean authorities on the Mano River Union Bridge in Bo Water Side, Grand Cape Mount County, to discuss means to enhance the level of individual and joint security operations andpatrols along the common border.

Special Representative Doss recognized that the current security situation has allowed increased trade between the two countries. However, he cautioned that both Liberian and Sierra Leonean authorities must continue to be vigilant and ensure that no illegal movement of civilians and weapons takes place. Mr. Doss described the joint operation as “a good example of working together to ensure that the safety and security of the citizens and government of Liberia are maintained.”

Speaking to UNMIL Radio, Minister Samukai praised UNMIL’s support for the joint operations and described the continuous communication between the two countries as a means of establishing confidence and ensuring safe movement of people and free flow of goods across the borders.

During the visit, the SRSG and the delegation also met with the Namibian contingent deployed in the area and received a detailed briefing on the security situation in Grand Cape Mount County.

Special Representative Doss praised the Namibian contingent for their good work and reminded them that until the Liberian national forces are rebuilt, the responsibility of ensuring the safety of Liberia’s borders lies with them. He also reminded the contingent that they must strictly abide by the UN’s code of personal conduct.

On behalf of the Liberian Government, Minister Samukai also expressed his gratitude to the contingent. “We encourage the humanitarian assistance you are providing, especially the clinic. It is very helpful for our people,” he added.

The delegation also visited the camp currently being built by Pakistani military engineers in the Guthrie plantation. The camp will include facilities to house the Liberian National Police and an UNMIL Formed Police Unit in support of the Liberian Government’s decision to re-possess the rubber plantation.

Published in: UN Envoy meets Sierra Leonean authorities on the Mano River Union Bridge, Grand Cape Mount County, Press Release, UNMIL, August 8, 2006.