Taylor orders reopening of border with Sierra Leone, Guinea

Liberia's President, Charles Taylor, on Friday announced the reopening of its borders with neighbouring Sierra Leone and Guinea, the pro-government Radio Liberia International (RLI) reported. He made the announcement to members of a joint security committee of the Mano River Union (MRU) who visited him. Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea form the MRU. Liberia closed its borders with Guinea and Sierra Leone on 20 March this year after declaring the ambassadors of both countries personae non gratae for committing what he described as acts incompatible with their status. Taylor has also lifted restrictions imposed early this year on the movement of foreign diplomats and UN officials in Liberia, RLI said. According to the radio station, the restrictions had been imposed "for security reasons" because of the war in the northwestern county of Lofa. Taylor said Friday's decisions were a clear manifestation of his government's eagerness and sincerity to foster peace and security for the peoples of the three countries. He said there was an urgent need for MRU authorities to work hard towards peace, security and development in the region. The Liberian side of the border with Sierra Leone was opened at the weekend, BBC confirmed on Saturday.