Brick by Brick: The Business of Rebuilding Liberia
President Sirleaf Addresses Joint Session of Legislature
In a recent speech in front of a joint session of the Liberian Legislature, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said, "Together we have endeavored to usher in a new era of partnership with foreign companies exemplified by our recent agreements with ArcelorMittal and Firestone. These agreements balance these companies' investment needs with the necessity of maximizing revenues for the people of Liberia; revenues that will be plowed back into roads, schools, clinics and other formal infrastructure."
Firestone's investment agreement with the Government of Liberia — signed earlier this year — is truly a win-win for both parties. The agreement allows Firestone to continue its rubber farm operations and rebuilding efforts in the country, while expanding its new rubberwood facility. Since the end of the civil war, Firestone has invested almost $59 million in improving conditions in Liberia and intends to invest tens of millions more.
Listen to President Sirleaf's July 30 speech
Posted by: Dan Adomitis
July 30, 2008
