The Digest:
US President Donald Trump surprised attendees at the White House when he asked Liberian President Joseph Boakai about his English skills. The comment, made during a meeting with several African leaders, sparked confusion because Liberia’s official language is English.
Key Points:
- Trump hosted African leaders from Senegal, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania, and Liberia at the White House.
- During the meeting, Trump complimented Liberian President Boakai’s English, asking, “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
- Boakai, who spoke in English, responded with a polite “Yes, sir,” but didn’t mention that English is Liberia’s official language.
- Trump, in a lighthearted moment, remarked, “I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”
- Liberia’s English proficiency stems from its 19th-century founding by freed American slaves.
- Trump later emphasized his administration's commitment to strengthening relationships with African nations.
- African leaders praised Trump for his efforts to promote global peace and expressed support for his potential nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Trump’s casual remark to President Boakai about his English skills, despite Liberia's long history with the language, caught many off guard. However, the meeting underscored continued diplomatic dialogue between the US and African nations.
Sources: TheCable, BBC, CNN
