Tommy Piggott, principal deputy spokesperson at the Department of State, said during a virtual question-and-answer session that the United States has signed more than 30 deals worth over $6,000,000,000 to invest in African countries and is shifting from an aid-focused relationship to a trade-focused partnership.

Piggott framed the shift as part of the administration’s approach to deepen bilateral relationships and long-term prosperity. “Now I'm very happy that Victor asked this question because nothing could be further from the truth. We've actually seen, just in a matter of months, over 30 deals signed worth over $6,000,000,000 about investing in Africa,” Piggott said. He added the effort reflects moving “from an aid dynamic to a trade dynamic.”

Piggott also characterized the approach as consistent with a “Putting America First” policy, saying it helps “identify common interests we have with countries, leads to stronger bilateral relationships, and actually leads to long term prosperity.” He described those results as benefiting “the American people, but also countries around the world.”

The spokesman did not identify which companies, agreements, or African partner countries are included in the deals. Details such as the contract parties, sectors involved, financing sources, and implementation timelines were not specified during the session.

The virtual session consisted of social-media questions; one questioner identified as Victor prompted the investment answer. The event closed with Piggott inviting further questions via the Department of State’s social platforms.