The White House has defended President Donald Trump’s comment to Liberian President Joseph Boakai, in which he praised Boakai’s English-speaking skills.
The White House has defended President Donald Trump’s comment to Liberian President Joseph Boakai, in which he praised Boakai’s English-speaking skills. During a meeting with five African leaders, Trump asked Boakai, “Such good English, it’s beautiful. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” Boakai replied he studied in Liberia, where English is the official language. The remark drew backlash from some Liberians, with youth advocate Archie Tamel Harris saying, “I felt insulted because our country is an English-speaking country.” A Liberian diplomat called the comment “a bit condescending.” However, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti clarified, “There was no offense,” explaining Trump noticed Liberia’s American-influenced English. White House adviser Massad Boulos said the meeting reflected strong appreciation for Trump. Deputy press secretary Anna Kelly called the remark a “heartfelt compliment.” Trump also praised the African nations’ resources and people, and Boakai expressed alignment with Trump’s “Make America Great Again” policy.