Donald Trump complimented Liberian President Joseph Boakai on his English during a White House lunch with African leaders. Boakai noted Liberia's long-standing friendship with the United States, advocating for U.S. investment. Trump seemed surprised at Boakai's mastery of English, once again prompting him about his education in a manner that implied he thought it unusual. Liberia's complex history includes its origins as a colony for freed African slaves and a delayed recognition of independence by the United States until 1862. Although English is the official language, many indigenous languages are also spoken.
"Such good English," Trump said. "Where did you learn to speak so beautifully? Where were you educated?" Boakai seemed to chuckle but diplomatically didn't give a direct response.
Liberia is a long-time friend of the United States and we believe in your policy of making America great again, Liberian president Joseph Boakai said before advocating for US investment in his country.
In Liberia?" Trump prompted. "Yes sir," Boakai replied. "That's very interesting," Trump said. "I have people at this table who can't speak nearly as well."
The west African country was founded in 1822 as a colony for freed African slaves and free-born Black citizens, with white members of the American Colonisation Society believing they faced better chances of freedom there than in America.
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