Trump visits Saudi Arabia, holds talks with Crown Prince Salman

Trump visits Saudi Arabia, holds talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman speaks as they meet delegations during an arrival ceremony at the Royal Palace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2025. Photo: The White House

Trump hails Saudi crown prince in sign of closer U.S.-Saudi ties

RIYADH,— U.S. President Donald Trump was welcomed with full honors by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday as both leaders signed a significant economic partnership agreement aimed at boosting cooperation across multiple industries, including defense, energy, and mining.

The agreement was formalized during Trump’s visit to the Saudi capital, marking the beginning of his second-term diplomatic outreach.

The economic pact is part of a broader effort by both nations to strengthen ties that have historically been built on mutual strategic interests.

According to officials present at the Royal Terminal of King Khalid International Airport, where the arrival ceremony took place, the partnership includes a $600 billion Saudi investment plan involving infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and energy development. A separate $142 billion arms and defense procurement deal was also announced.

During a high-profile investment summit held later in the day, Trump described the crown prince as “a visionary leader” and referred to him as “a great guy,” signaling a clear shift in tone from the U.S. leadership compared to previous administrations.

“I admire him deeply. He’s done amazing things,” Trump said to applause from the Saudi hosts. “This is the kind of leadership we want to work with.”

Trump’s overt praise was a marked departure from U.S. policy under former President Joe Biden, who in 2019 vowed to isolate Saudi Arabia over its human rights record, particularly in the wake of the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The Biden administration later softened its stance amid rising oil prices and shifting geopolitical dynamics.

Officials from both sides told reporters that the renewed partnership is grounded in practical considerations. While human rights concerns were not mentioned publicly, the economic and military interests appeared to take center stage.

Trump’s visit also featured personal moments between the two leaders. Crown Prince Mohammed personally accompanied Trump through ceremonial protocols, including a private golf cart tour of the palace grounds before an official state dinner. Observers noted their close rapport and coordinated public appearances.

One notable outcome from the day’s meetings was Trump’s announcement that the United States would move to lift sanctions on Syria—a decision he said was made at the crown prince’s urging. The surprise declaration was met with a standing ovation inside the summit hall.

Trump’s return to the region comes as bin Salman continues efforts to modernize the kingdom under his Vision 2030 plan, which seeks to diversify the economy beyond oil.

Access to U.S. military technology and investment capital is seen as a key part of that effort.

Although rights groups and some lawmakers in Washington have expressed concern over closer U.S.-Saudi ties, both leaders emphasized the future-oriented nature of the partnership. No references were made to past controversies during the day’s events.

The visit marks Trump’s first major overseas engagement since beginning his second term in office and may signal a recalibrated U.S. role in the Middle East.

(With files from Reuters)