Paris, France - French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Friday congratulated the three women winners of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize, saying that one of them, President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf of Liberia, was a symbol of the rise of democracy in Africa.

President Johnson-Sirleaf, Liberian peace activist, Leyman Gbowee, and Yemeni rights activist, Tawakkul Karman, were Friday jointly awarded the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize.

'The strong commitment of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for peace, social justice and development in Liberia has helped to turn the page of 14 years of violence and lawlessness,' wrote the French President in a text made available to PANA in Paris, the French capital.

According to Sarkozy, Gbowee, also Liberian, illustrates the unique role of the Liberian civil society, adding that her commitment against violence, for women's rights and the protection of children, has maintained hope, even in the darkest hours.

'By distinguishing these two admirable Liberians, it is also the revival of Liberia that the Nobel Prize underscores and encourages,' said Sarkozy, who expressed the wish that the forthcoming election in Liberia should confirm the strength of its young democracy and called upon all political forces in Liberia to work in this direction.

The French president also praised the Yemeni Tawakkul Karman, a co-winner with the two Liberians, believing that her distinction was a tribute to 'courageous' fight of the Arab people for democracy and freedom.

Pana 08/10/2011