Washington, D.C. – July 9, 2025

Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai delivered a compelling address at a White House summit hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump, joining leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal to discuss trade, security, and democratic governance. The high-profile gathering comes amid shifting U.S. foreign aid policies, raising questions about whether this summit could redefine America’s engagement with Africa.

A Call for Investment and Partnership

President Boakai emphasized Liberia’s historic ties with the United States, praising the long-standing friendship between the two nations. He voiced strong support for Trump’s “Make America Great Again” foreign policy approach while urging greater U.S. investment in Liberia’s economy, particularly in mineral exploration and infrastructure development.

“Liberia remains a steadfast partner of the United States, and we believe that mutual prosperity can be achieved through trade, not just aid,” Boakai stated. He also highlighted the importance of regional security cooperation in West Africa, calling for U.S. support in combating instability and fostering peace.

President Trump, in response, commended Boakai’s remarks, humorously praising the Liberian leader’s “beautiful English” before reaffirming America’s commitment to “fair and reciprocal trade” with African nations.

A Shift in U.S.-Africa Relations?

The summit arrives as the U.S. reduces traditional aid packages to Africa, pushing instead for private-sector-driven economic partnerships. While some analysts see this as an opportunity for African nations to negotiate more equitable trade deals, others worry that reduced aid could undermine development programs in health, education, and governance.

The presence of leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Senegal signals a strategic U.S. focus on West Africa, a region rich in natural resources but also facing security challenges, including terrorism and political instability. Discussions reportedly touched on counterterrorism efforts, with Mauritania and Senegal seeking increased military cooperation.

Mixed Reactions from the Continent

Back in Africa, reactions to the summit have been divided. Proponents argue that Boakai’s emphasis on trade over aid reflects a growing assertiveness among African leaders in shaping their economic futures. Critics, however, caution against over-reliance on U.S. partnerships, pointing to past unfulfilled promises and the need for diversified global alliances.

As the summit concludes, the key question remains: Will this meeting mark a turning point in U.S.-Africa relations, or will it be another fleeting diplomatic gesture? For now, President Boakai’s appeal for investment and peace has positioned Liberia—and West Africa—at the center of the conversation.