On Tuesday, President Donald Trump took a significant step in U.S.-Saudi relations by designating Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally. This announcement came during a White House dinner commemorating 80 years of ties between the two nations. During the dinner, Trump expressed his appreciation for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit and the substantial investments he plans to make in the United States.
The historical context of this designation was not lost on Trump. He reflected on the origins of the partnership, recalling a pivotal meeting in 1945 between President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and King Abdul Aziz. “It’s a special privilege to welcome His Royal Highness to Washington this year,” Trump said, underscoring the warmth and friendship established during that first encounter. He declared that now, more than ever, Saudi Arabia has a true friend in the United States, emphasizing the enduring nature of their partnership.
Trump was enthusiastic about the upgrades to this relationship, claiming that they are “making that partnership closer and stronger than ever before.” He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s push for modernization and referred to the kingdom as “an economic engine and a modern-day miracle.” He mentioned agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation in energy, minerals, and artificial intelligence, calling them “unprecedented.” Alongside these initiatives, the crown prince committed to upping Saudi investment in the U.S. from $600 billion to $1 trillion, a move that Trump said would create American jobs.
In his remarks, Trump declared, “So that’s why tonight I’m pleased to announce that we’re taking our military cooperation to even greater heights.” This change in status for Saudi Arabia, he asserted, is integral to both nations and indicative of a strong and capable partnership with benefits for regional peace.
The president noted that this partnership includes a historic strategic defense agreement, which he claimed would bolster not just America’s safety but that of Saudi Arabia as well. “He said, I am going to up that to $1 trillion,” Trump recounted, emphasizing the significance of the crown prince’s commitment and its potential impact on U.S. interests.
Furthermore, Trump pointed out what he labeled the largest arms purchase in history, amounting to $142 billion in American military equipment and services. He argued that this pact would facilitate greater safety for both nations and solidify Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting stability and security in the Middle East.
In discussing Saudi safety, Trump stated, “Saudi Arabia has never been as safe as it is right now,” suggesting that previous threats have been significantly diminished. He connected these developments to his broader peace initiatives in the region, referring to the resolution of tensions in Gaza and the return of hostages as part of a larger strategy aimed at fostering peace. “This is a board like no other,” he said about his proposed “Board of Peace” initiative, noting that it would include major world leaders, with him at the helm.
During the evening, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reciprocated the gesture of goodwill, expressing gratitude for the “warm and great welcome” he received. He underscored the importance of the day, highlighting the significant economic relationship being formed. Bin Salman articulated a vision for future collaboration, indicating a strong commitment to increasing opportunities between both nations.
The evening concluded with Trump reiterating that the current alliance reflects the strongest moment in U.S.-Saudi relations since the original meeting between Roosevelt and King Abdul Aziz. “Someday, maybe we’ll talk about us as being two wonderful men,” he remarked, suggesting a vision for a legacy rooted in mutual respect and achievement.
This event marked a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations, characterized by an enhanced defense partnership and significant financial commitments. The atmosphere at the dinner illustrated a united front as both leaders expressed optimism for the future of their nations’ collaboration.
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