Washington: US President Donald J. Trump told leaders of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal that his administration decided to shift from aid to trade as a means of strengthening peace across Africa. "Most people thought it couldn't be done. But there's still much more to be done and we're going to be facilitating peace also in places like Sudan, where they have a lot of problems," he said during a multilateral lunch with the five African leaders at the White House on Wednesday.
According to Kuwait News Agency, President Trump emphasized his commitment to fostering stronger relationships with African nations through economic development initiatives. He noted that his administration is closing the USAID group to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, and instead focusing on creating new economic opportunities. Trump highlighted that trade, rather than aid, is a more sustainable and effective approach to resolving disputes and fostering long-term benefits.
President Trump pointed out the vast economic potential in Africa and expressed eagerness to collaborate with African leaders on crucial issues such as security. He encouraged greater investments in defense, particularly in purchasing American military equipment, which he claimed is the best in the world. The agenda also included discussions on combating terrorism and addressing immigration issues, including reducing visa overstays and progressing on safe third country agreements.
Trump also addressed tariffs on the continent, stating that while the US treats Africa well in terms of tariffs, some African nations impose significant tariffs on American goods. He mentioned that these countries have informed him of their plans to reduce such tariffs, asserting that the US treats Africa better than any other nation, including China.