Donald Trump met with the presidents of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal at the White House on Wednesday. The Guardian
Former U.S. President Donald Trump met with leaders from five African nations on Wednesday. The meeting took place at the White House, where the leaders discussed building stronger ties between Africa and the United States.
The countries represented were Liberia, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal. The leaders expressed interest in increasing trade and investment with the U.S.
Liberia’s President Praises Trump
During the meeting, Liberian President Joseph Boakai took the floor. He thanked Trump for his leadership and said, “Liberia is a longtime friend of the United States.” He also shared his support for Trump’s slogan, saying, “We believe in your policy of making America great again.”
Trump, appearing pleased, smiled and complimented Boakai on his English. He asked, “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” Boakai replied with a light chuckle, “In Liberia, sir.”
Trump seemed surprised and responded, “That’s very interesting. That’s beautiful English. I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”
English Is Liberia’s Official Language
Trump’s surprise sparked quiet laughter among some observers. Liberia’s official language is English. The country was founded in 1822 as a place for freed Black Americans. Though many Indigenous languages are also spoken, English remains the main language of government, schools, and public life.
Focus Shifts From Aid to Trade
Trump told the group he wants to change how the U.S. works with African nations. “We’re shifting from aid to trade,” he said. He believes this new approach will help both sides more in the long run.
He explained that Africa has great economic potential. He hopes that investing in Africa will lead to stronger partnerships.
Trump added, “In many ways, this will be more effective and beneficial than anything else we could do together.”
African Leaders Invite U.S. Investment
The African leaders at the meeting responded warmly. Many of them praised Trump for promoting peace and shared their hopes for more investment from American companies.
Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, said, “We are not poor countries. We are rich in raw materials.” He added, “We need partners to support us and help us grow.”
He invited Trump and American investors to come to Africa, warning that other countries may step in if the U.S. does not act.
Trump Hints at Visiting Africa
Trump said he would like to visit Africa in the future. He thanked the leaders for coming and repeated that the U.S. wants to build long-term friendships with their nations.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides showing interest in stronger trade ties and shared economic goals.
