Liberia's new president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has taken office, becoming Africa's first elected woman head of state.
Thousands of Liberians and scores of foreign dignitaries attended Monday's inaugration ceremony in the west African nation's capital, Monrovia.
In her first remarks as president, Mrs. Sirleaf promised to fight corruption and cooperate with foreign donors as her government seeks to rebuild the country after years of civil war.
In an interview with VOA's Scott Stearns, President Bush's wife Laura said the United States is committed to helping Liberia build infrastructure, including schools and a reliable electricity supply.
Mrs. Bush led the U.S. delegation to today's ceremony. Other guests included South African President Thabo Mbeki and Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Mrs. Sirleaf was elected in November, beating former football star George Weah in a runoff.
