Trump hosts summit with West African leaders

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump hailed West Africa’s rich natural resources as he hosted five of its leaders on Wednesday for a White House summit, aimed at fostering trade to counter the influence of Russia and China.

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Trump's administration is seeking to strengthen economic ties with the mineral-rich region as it simultaneously curbs foreign aid to Africa and hits nations with 10% import tariffs.

Talks with the presidents of Senegal, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and Gabon were expected to focus on commercial opportunities and security.

“We're working tirelessly to forge new economic opportunities involving the United States and many African nations,” Trump told the leaders and reporters before the meeting.

“There's great economic potential in Africa, like few other places, in many ways.”

He gushed about the continent's “vibrant places, very valuable lands, great minerals, great oil deposits” — and was rewarded with personal praise in return as each leader offered their approval when asked by an African media outlet if Trump should win a Nobel Peace Prize.