Trump: ‘Honor’ to host ‘good friend’ Saudi crown prince at the White House

President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House in Washington this week in what the president described as an important moment for United States‑Saudi relations. Trump called the crown prince a good friend and said it was an honor to host him in the nation’s capital.

The visit marks the crown prince’s first trip to the United States in more than seven years. The two leaders met in the Oval Office and talked about deepening cooperation between their countries on economic, defense and regional security issues. Trump highlighted the longstanding ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia during a ceremonial welcome on the South Lawn where a military band and aircraft flyover set the tone for the day’s events.

Government officials and business leaders joined the crown prince and the president for a black‑tie dinner at the White House in the evening. The event was attended by prominent figures from global technology and sports who were present to witness the strengthening of ties. The gathering underscored the wide‑ranging interests both governments hope to advance, including increased investment and strategic partnerships.

Economic cooperation was a central theme of the visit. During the meetings, discussions included possible large‑scale investments in American industries and increased purchases of U.S. defense equipment. Trump signaled his support for potential sales of advanced fighter jets to the Saudi kingdom, a move that would represent a significant shift in U.S. arms policy.

The visit also comes with sensitive historical context. It is the crown prince’s first Washington trip since the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, a case that drew international scrutiny and strained relations. Trump’s warm reception and praise of the crown prince highlight a broader effort by the administration to prioritize strategic alliances and economic partnerships in the Middle East.

As the visit continues, both sides have said they will pursue cooperation in areas such as energy, technology and security. Trump’s emphasis on personal friendship with the Saudi leader reflects his administration’s foreign policy approach of building relationships with key partners around the world.