Did Trump Welcome Saudi Crown Prince and Finalize F-35 Sales and Energy Deals?
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Synopsis
In a landmark meeting, President Trump hosted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, sealing pivotal agreements on nuclear energy, defense, and AI. This visit marks a significant milestone in US-Saudi relations, with ambitious plans for investment and regional diplomacy on the agenda.
Key Takeaways
- Trump and bin Salman signed key agreements.
- F-35 jets and military cooperation were approved.
- Investment plans aim to boost US-Saudi economic ties.
- Saudi Arabia seeks to join the Abraham Accords.
- Regional diplomacy and strategic commitments highlighted.
On November 19, in a significant diplomatic encounter, US President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House. During this meeting, both parties formalized agreements encompassing nuclear energy, defense, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence.
As stated by the White House, they sealed deals on civil nuclear energy, a framework for critical minerals, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding AI.
Moreover, both leaders signed a US-Saudi Strategic Defense Agreement (SDA), with Trump endorsing the sale of F-35 jets and tanks.
This marked the crown prince’s first visit to the White House in seven years, celebrated with full ceremonial honors, including a military guard and a flyover by US aircraft.
Trump, in his welcome address, characterized the crown prince as an “extremely respected” individual and emphasized their enduring personal relationship.
During the discussions, Prince Mohammed expressed ambitions to enhance Saudi investments in the US from an anticipated $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion.
He framed this increase as a strategic commitment towards US growth, highlighting the rising demand for computing power and sophisticated chips within the kingdom.
“We believe in the future of America,” he stated, calling the opportunities “real” and driven by commercial interests. Trump appreciated this commitment, responding that the United States “appreciates it very much.”
When questioned about the 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Trump reiterated his stance that the crown prince had no involvement in the incident.
Prince Mohammed referred to the killing as “painful” for Saudi Arabia and labeled it a “huge mistake,” asserting that his government has reinforced measures to avert a recurrence. He highlighted that the kingdom has undertaken steps deemed necessary and corrective.
Addressing regional diplomacy, the crown prince confirmed Saudi Arabia's interest in joining the Abraham Accords and establishing formal relations with Israel. However, he stressed that Riyadh seeks a “clear path toward a two-state solution” before making progress.
On Wednesday, both leaders are scheduled to partake in a US-Saudi investment forum in Washington.
Point of View
This meeting signifies a crucial step in reinforcing US-Saudi relations, especially in the context of regional stability and economic collaboration. The agreements on nuclear energy and defense illustrate a commitment to mutual interests, while the crown prince's investment ambitions reflect a strategic foresight that could benefit both nations.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What agreements were signed during the meeting?
The meeting resulted in agreements on nuclear energy, defense, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence.
What is the significance of the F-35 jet sale?
The F-35 jet sale is a key aspect of military cooperation and defense strategy between the US and Saudi Arabia.
How does this meeting affect US-Saudi relations?
This meeting strengthens US-Saudi relations through enhanced investment, strategic defense agreements, and discussions on regional diplomacy.
What is the Crown Prince's investment plan for the US?
The Crown Prince aims to increase Saudi investment in the US from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion.
What did Trump say about the Khashoggi incident?
Trump reiterated his belief that the Crown Prince had no role in the Khashoggi incident, despite its tragic implications.
