On July 9, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump convened a summit at the White House with leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal.
The primary goal of the meeting was to bolster diplomatic and economic ties, with a specific emphasis on trade, investment, and regional security.
This summit signifies a shift in U.S. foreign policy, moving towards commercial partnerships rather than traditional aid models.
The discussions covered key topics such as trade and investment opportunities, as well as strategies to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, and manage migration within the region.
A notable outcome was the U.S. decision to transition from foreign aid programs to empowering self-sufficient countries through trade and investment.
The exclusion of Nigeria from the summit raised questions about the diplomatic implications of this decision.
The summit underscores the Trump administration's evolving approach to Africa, prioritizing mutual economic prosperity and regional security through trade and investment.