Overview

• President Trump asked Liberian President Joseph Boakai where he learned to speak “beautiful English,” appearing unaware that English has been Liberia’s sole official language since its 1847 independence.
• The exchange took place during a July 9 summit in the State Dining Room with leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and Senegal to discuss economic development and security cooperation.
• Video of Trump’s remark went viral on social media, triggering widespread mockery and questions about the administration’s grasp of basic diplomatic facts.
• Critics argue the gaffe underscores a pattern of foreign-policy unpreparedness and risks undermining U.S. efforts to strengthen ties with African nations.
• Liberia’s founding by freed American slaves and long-standing use of English highlight deep historical bonds that the president’s comment overlooked.