Former U.S. President Donald Trump is set to host a mini-summit with leaders from five African countries next week in Washington, D.C. The meeting, scheduled to take place from July 9 to 11, will focus on trade, investment, and security matters.
The African countries invited to the summit include Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal.
According to reports, the summit will mark a shift from traditional foreign aid towards business-focused partnerships. Discussions will center on boosting trade, attracting investments, and improving cooperation in areas such as maritime security and critical minerals.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is playing a key role in organizing the summit, said the United States is looking for African partners that are ready to work towards economic growth and security.
“This summit is not about charity or aid. It’s about creating real business opportunities and securing partnerships that benefit both sides,” Rubio stated.
Some reports also suggest that this mini-summit could pave the way for a larger U.S.-Africa summit planned for later this year.
African media outlets say the summit caught many by surprise, but leaders from the invited nations are eager to attend, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen ties with the U.S.
Security experts say discussions may also cover potential travel restrictions and border security cooperation.
Many observers view this as Trump’s new strategy to re-engage Africa, focusing on trade deals, security agreements, and investment opportunities.
The outcome of the summit could reshape U.S. relations with Africa in the coming years.
