The U.S. Embassy in N'Djamena recently hosted an event to celebrate Independence Day, expressing gratitude to the attendees who joined the occasion.
In a speech delivered during the celebration, the Chargé d’Affaires reflected on the historical significance of America's independence and its impact on global relations. “When our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence 249 years ago, they were revolutionaries. They imagined a new world and new opportunities, and they dared to approach things differently," he stated. He emphasized that "the new Trump administration is also approaching our relationship with Africa in a new and visionary way."
The focus of this new approach is to shift from aid-based interactions to partnerships based on equality and mutual benefit. "As many of you are aware our relationship with Africa has long been defined by aid," he noted, suggesting a desire for change: "We are looking to rebalance our relationship in ways that have been long sought by Africans who are eager to demonstrate their abilities and their independence."
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was quoted as saying, “America first does not mean America alone.” The emphasis was placed on collaboration with African countries to foster economic growth and address security priorities.
Ambassador Troy Fitrell, Senior Official for Africa, echoed these sentiments during a visit to Abidjan: “We no longer see Africa as a continent in need of handouts, but as a capable commercial partner. ‘Trade, not aid,’ a slogan we’ve seen thrown around for years, is now truly our policy for Africa." He highlighted that commerce represents an exchange between equals rather than a donor-recipient dynamic.
Chad's ambitious “Chad Connection 2030” plan was mentioned as an opportunity for enhancing U.S.-Chad relations. The Chargé d’Affaires expressed optimism about future collaborations: "With a new vision and new opportunities for Chad’s young entrepreneurs and business, the future for the U.S.-Chad relationship may in fact be closer than we think."
Despite acknowledging short-term challenges, there was confidence expressed regarding the long-term benefits of cooperation between the two nations: "Achieving it will take political will in both of our countries and a commitment to true partnership."
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