Washington: The African Union has demanded an apology from the US President Donald Trump after he called them ‘shithole countries’.
The group’s mission in Washington DC expressed its “shock, dismay and outrage” and said the Trump administration misunderstood Africans.
The US leader made the alleged remark during a meeting regarding immigration.
“The remarks dishonour the celebrated American creed and respect for diversity and human dignity,” the African Union said.
The Union added, “While expressing our shock, dismay and outrage, the African Union strongly believes that there is a huge misunderstanding of the African continent and its people by the current Administration.”
“There is a serious need for dialogue between the US Administration and the African countries.”
Trump had reportedly said, “Why are we having all these people from shithole countries come here?” Trump had said, reported the Washington Post.
The remark was reportedly in reference to people from Haiti, El Salvador and African countries, the BBC reported.
The President had reportedly added that US should accept immigrants from countries like Norway instead.
The White House didn’t deny the comments however, they said that the President didn’t use foul language.
Two Republicans, who were at the White House meeting, however, backed Trump’s claim though Democratic Senator Dick Durbin said Trump called African countries “shitholes” several times and used “racist” language.
On Friday, Trump tweeted that the language he used at the private meeting with lawmakers to discuss immigration legislation had been “tough”, the BBC said.
