In his first major diplomatic move with Africa during his return to the White House, President Trump is set to welcome the leaders of Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal at a three-day summit in Washington, D.C. from July 9-11. The presidents of these five countries will meet with President Trump in bilateral discussions and a working lunch. The United States has made clear that it seeks partnerships grounded in mutual economic benefit, especially in trade, investment, and critical minerals. While the emphasis might appear to be strictly economic, the summit reflects a broader strategic ambition of reasserting U.S. power and influence in a region where rivals have surged ahead.
Prosperity and power: Trump’s selective US-Africa summit and the race with China | Brookings