Trump marvels at Liberian president’s ‘good English’. It’s his nation’s official language
The awkward exchange adds to a pattern of Trump’s unusual compliments to foreign leaders
US President Donald Trump praised Liberian President Joseph Boakai for speaking English articulately, seemingly unaware of the fact that English is Liberia’s national language.
“Such good English, that’s beautiful,” Trump said during a Wednesday meeting at the White House with five African leaders. “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
Boakai chuckled awkwardly as Trump’s praise continued.
“Were you educated?” Trump pressed. When Boakai replied “Yes, sir”, Trump asked his counterpart if he went to school in Liberia, which the West African leader also confirmed.
“Well, that’s very interesting,” Trump said, again calling Boakai’s English-speaking skills “beautiful”.