Stricter rules and requirements for countries seeking aid
The United States says it is revisiting a Cold War Marshall Plan to bypass the United Nations and target key sectors of foreign economies to provide aid that will advance U.S. interests and “move recipient states toward self-reliance, and prevent long-term dependency.”
National security adviser John Bolton stated that countries that are less needy recipients should graduate from foreign assistance while adding that countries and organizations making poor policy choices will be denied assistance.
He said the United States will focus its economic efforts on African governments that act as strategic partners and are striving toward improved governance and transparent business practices.
“We also intend to pursue modern, comprehensive trade agreements on the continent that ensure fair and reciprocal exchange between the United States and the nations of Africa. We will begin these negotiations on a bilateral basis, and focus on creating mutually beneficial partnerships,” he added.