The government of Botswana released a statement Thursday responding to reports that President Trump used the term “sh**hole countries” to describe countries like Haiti in a discussion on immigration. Botswana asked the U.S. to “clarify if Botswana is regarded as a "sh**hole" country given that there are Botswana nationals residing in the U.S., and also that some of Batswana may wish to visit the U.S."
Following Pres. Trump's comments, Botswana has asked the U.S. government "to clarify if Botswana is regarded as a 'shithole' country." pic.twitter.com/USV8CM24IM
— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 12, 2018
"The government of Botswana, today summoned the U.S. ambassador to Botswana to express its displeasure at the alleged utterances made by the President of the U.S., Donald Trump, when he referred to African countries and others as "sh**hole countries" during a meeting," according to the statement shared by NBC News from Botswana's Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation.
“Botswana has accepted U.S. citizens within her borders over the years and continues to host U.S. guests and senior government officials, including a Congressional delegation that will come to Botswana at the end of this month,” according to the statement. “That is why we view the utterances by the current American President as highly irresponsible, reprehensible and racist.”
President Trump tweeted a denial Friday that he had used such language in the meeting.
The language used by me at the DACA meeting was tough, but this was not the language used. What was really tough was the outlandish proposal made - a big setback for DACA!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018
Never said anything derogatory about Haitians other than Haiti is, obviously, a very poor and troubled country. Never said “take them out.” Made up by Dems. I have a wonderful relationship with Haitians. Probably should record future meetings - unfortunately, no trust!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018