France, July 9 -- US President Donald Trump will host the leaders of five West and Central African countries at the White House on Wednesday at the start of an unprecedented two-day summit. Trade, investment and security are expected to top the agenda as Washington pivots away from foreign development aid.

The presidents of Senegal, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania and Gabon - all Atlantic coast nations - are meeting at Trump's invitation.

While the White House has disclosed few details, a senior US official said the aim is to foster "open dialogue" and to "listen to [Africa's] concerns and priorities", with the goal of promoting private sector investment and deeper economic partnerships.

Though lacking the mineral wealth of nations ...