Visit by President of Benin to US, July 28, 2011

Visit by Presidents of Benin, Guinea,
Niger, and Cote d'Ivoire to Washington, D.C.

• The United States has invited four democratically elected leaders from West Africa to visit Washington July 28-29 to highlight the importance of holding credible elections, building strong democratic institutions, and fostering economic development. These leaders have recently been elected or re-elected via the democratic process, in some cases successfully overcoming lengthy periods of conflict or disputed rule.  
• President Obama will receive them at the White House on July 29. As stated in the President's 2009 Accra speech, elected leaders know that democracy is more than just holding elections. They have each stated their commitment to building transparent institutions that provide economic development and opportunity for all citizens. 
• Benin President Yayi's re-election further strengthens Benin's governmental institutions in a country with a well-rooted democratic history. He is an advocate for universal democratic principles - including gender equity or equality and protection of human rights.