Trump wants a hug from Mexican prez. Who knew?

WASHINGTON » President Donald Trump wants a hug from Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. Who knew?

But Trump said such a gesture would be “very nice” as he wrapped up an unusual, public speakerphone conversation with the outgoing Mexican leader.

The long-distance call was a central feature of Monday’s unexpected announcement of a preliminary agreement between the U.S. and Mexico on a trade pact Trump hopes will succeed the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he says is bad for America.

But first, the White House actually had to get Pena Nieto on the line.

Technical difficulties plagued the connection as the president, seated at his Oval Office desk, awkwardly tried to speak with his counterpart while reporters and cameramen watched.

“I believe the president is on the phone. Enrique?” Trump asked, as camera shutter clicks filled the silence.

“It’s a big thing,” he told no one in particular. “A lot of people waiting.”

“Hello?... Hello?” he asked, growing visibly annoyed. At one point, he barked to an aide, “Be helpful.”

Finally, Pena Nieto was patched in to begin a congratulatory call that included few details and contradictory statements. What the leaders agreed to was unclear, though Trump said it signaled the end of NAFTA, which he has called a “terrible deal” for America. Congress must approve any changes.

At one point, Trump prompted confused questions from reporters after he said the deal was with Canada. The deal is only with Mexico, and Trump immediately corrected himself.

EVAN VUCCI — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS President Donald Trump listens during a phone call with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto about a trade agreement between the United States and Mexico, in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday in Washington.