Indira Gandhi Prize For Peace, Disarmament And Development For 2012 Conferred On President Of The Republic Of…

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the 2012 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development to President H.E. Ms. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia for serving as an example and an inspiration for ensuring the return of peace, democracy, development, security and order in Liberia; and for her strong interest in the consolidation and improvement of Liberia’s relations with India at a function at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (September 12, 2013).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said as the first woman elected to lead an African nation, President Sirleaf is an inspiration to women everywhere, indeed to all of us who seek and work for building peaceful and prosperous communities that enable the development of an informed empowered and productive citizenry. Her outstanding leadership and remarkable vision has earned her international recognition. President Sirleaf has been a powerful voice for conflict resolution, harmony, peace and democracy in Africa. Beyond Liberia’s own borders, these very ideals form the cornerstone of her efforts towards enhanced regional integration as an important vehicle for economic growth and social stability.

The President of India stated that we stand with President Sirleaf in her efforts to pursue stability, economic growth and democratic governance for the Liberian people. In presenting President Sirleaf with this Prize, we also recognise the people of Liberia and their courage and strength, he said.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Vice President Shri Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Shri Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi.

This release issued at 1400 hrs