04/01/2018 (Agence Europe) – The European Union sent its congratulations on 31 December to the new president of Liberia, George Weah, who won the election on 26 December following an exemplary electoral process. The EU had deployed an election observation mission, headed by Belgian MEP Marie Arena (S&D). “All political leaders showed responsibility in accepting swiftly the outcome of the elections”, said the European External Action Service spokesperson, hailing “the professionalism of the Liberian Institutions” and “the high and peaceful participation of Liberian people”. The elections, the spokesperson said, “open a new era after twelve years of successful leadership by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf”. The EU stands ready to “continue working with the new Government on national issues, as well as on regional and international challenges”. (AN)