Former President of the United States, Jimmy Carter has commended Nigeria’s former President Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as a symbol of democracy on the African continent.
Carter, the 39th US President, stated this while receiving Jonathan on Thursday at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum located
at the Carter Center in Atlanta.
The two former Presidents held a fruitful meeting at the carter Center, where they had a wide-ranging discussion on global issues and shared views on how to promote peace, democracy and good governance in Africa and the world.
Speaking on Jonathan’s time in office, Carter said: “President Goodluck Jonathan is the symbol of democracy in action. You set an example that other African leaders should follow.”
The former American President further praised Jonathan for organising a transparent election and easily conceding defeat and handing over to
the opposition, stressing that by doing so Jonathan showed his deep democratic commitment.
In his response, Jonathan stated that his actions while in office were informed by his belief in a peaceful, transparent and people-oriented governance, adding that Africa can only move forward through democracy and good governance.
Jonathan also commended Carter for the exemplary manner he has conducted his post-presidential life, adding that he was inspired by Carter’s commitment to causes that advance the path of humanity.
Jonathan and Carter share a common experience as one term President’s and have both retired involuntarily from politics while rededicating
their lives towards making the world a better place.
They both agreed that peaceful and stable government increase foreign direct investment and sustainable development.
Jonathan has been visiting many strategic
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pro-democracy institutions where he had been invited to share his experience in office as a promoter of democracy and advocate of good
governance in Africa.
He has so far been hosted by the Presidential Precinct in Virginia, John Kennedy School of Government, King Center as well as the Carter
Center.
He is scheduled to speak along side former US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Johnnie Carson about elections, peace and democracy at the National Democratic Institute, and Howard
University in Washington DC.