Saudi Crown Prince Makes Landmark Visit
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday. The meeting marked the most significant visit by a Saudi leader in more than seven years. The Crown Prince pledged to boost Saudi investments in the United States from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion.
Leaders Highlight Economic Cooperation
President Trump praised the Crown Prince and called him the future king of Saudi Arabia. He said the Saudi investments would create many jobs across the United States. Trump noted that the two sides had strengthened economic cooperation during recent discussions. He also contrasted his administration’s economic progress with the previous administration’s record. He said inflation had surged under President Biden and foreign investment had dropped during that time. Trump claimed that the United States received $21 trillion in investments within one year.
Discussions Focus on Defence Ties
Both leaders discussed major defence agreements during the meeting. Trump highlighted Saudi Arabia’s purchase of F-35 fighter jets. He emphasised growing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Israel on advanced defence technology. He added that the two countries held productive discussions on the Abraham Accords. Trump said the agreements could support regional security and promote broader partnerships.
Saudi Arabia Expands Strategic Vision
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said Saudi Arabia planned to raise its US investment to nearly $1 trillion. He said the investment would include sectors like technology and artificial intelligence. He called the United States the world’s most important country. The Crown Prince also addressed security concerns and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to combating terrorism. He recalled that Osama bin Laden once tried to damage US-Saudi relations.
Focus on Regional Peace Efforts
The Crown Prince said Saudi Arabia aimed to join the Abraham Accords under clear conditions. He stressed the need for a two-state solution and the creation of a Palestinian state. He said long-term peace required a defined path for Palestinian rights.
White House Ceremony Highlights Diplomacy
Trump greeted the Crown Prince on a red carpet lined by US military personnel. A US Army mounted honour guard escorted the motorcade toward the South Drive. The leaders looked skyward as fighter jets roared overhead before entering the White House. They later toured portraits outside the Oval Office before the formal talks began.
F-35 Sale Marks Major Policy Shift
Trump confirmed that the United States planned to sell F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has requested 48 of the advanced aircraft. This sale would mark the first transfer of F-35 jets to the kingdom. Analysts say the deal could shift the region’s military balance and test Washington’s policy on Israel’s qualitative military edge. Israel remains the only Middle Eastern country currently operating the F-35.
