Trump's Business Talks with Africa Exclude Major Players

The White House is hosting an African leaders summit this week, with only five countries from the continent invited. US President Donald Trump will host a lunch in Washington, DC, bringing together the presidents of Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Senegal, and Gabon to discuss commercial opportunities. The lunch is scheduled for noon in the State Dining Room of the White House.

Liberia acknowledged Trump's invitation, stating the summit aims to deepen diplomatic ties, advance economic goals, and enhance security cooperation. Notably, major African economies like South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ethiopia were not invited. Analysts view Trump's choice of invitees as a strategic move to counter Chinese and Russian influence in Africa.

Trump's focus on Africa's mineral wealth and challenging China's access to critical minerals is evident. The US aims to shift from traditional aid to strategic commerce-driven engagement in Africa. The summit discussions are expected to extend beyond commerce, touching on migration trends and security issues.

Despite being small economies, the five invited countries are rich in mineral resources and serve as common departure points for migrants to the US. The leaders of these nations can expect to leverage private sector partnerships, investment, infrastructural development, and security cooperation with the US.

Trump's approach to Africa reflects a shift towards favoring economically self-reliant partners and countering Chinese influence on the continent. The meeting with African leaders signifies a new US diplomatic model focused on economic reform and trade outcomes.

According to the source: CNN.