Washington: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to receive a lavish welcome from US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, marking his first visit to the United States since the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. During this visit, significant defense and nuclear deals are expected to be signed.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, President Trump is planning an extravagant reception for the prince, including a fly-by, cannon fire, and a gala dinner akin to a state dinner, although Prince Mohammed is not a head of state. This visit underscores Trump’s priority to strengthen ties with the oil-rich Gulf kingdom, evidenced by his announcement to sell coveted F-35 stealth fighters to Saudi Arabia despite concerns from Israel.
In addition to defense deals, a framework for civilian nuclear cooperation is also on the agenda, as confirmed by a source familiar with the negotiations. Trump’s discussions with Prince Mohammed, commonly known as MBS, will also focus on encouraging Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel as part of a broader Middle East peace initiative following the conflict in Gaza.
The visit marks a significant moment for the Saudi heir, who seeks a fresh start with the US after the Khashoggi murder scandal strained relations. US intelligence previously suggested that Prince Mohammed approved the operation, an allegation denied by Saudi authorities. Despite this, the prince has maintained a strong relationship with Trump, solidified by a lavish welcome and substantial investment pledges during Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia in May.
Prince Mohammed arrives with his own agenda, seeking stronger US security assurances after recent tensions in the Gulf region, particularly following Israeli strikes on Qatar. Saudi Arabia aims to acquire advanced air and missile defense systems, along with high-tech chips to advance its AI ambitions. However, normalization with Israel may remain elusive for now, as Riyadh is hesitant to proceed without progress on its international campaign for a Palestinian state.
Trump aims to highlight the strong rapport he shares with Prince Mohammed, which both leaders are eager to showcase. He is also set to attend a US-Saudi investment forum in Washington, focusing on energy and artificial intelligence. The Trump family’s business ties with the Saudis are also in the spotlight, with a new partnership announced between Saudi developer Dar Global and the Trump Organization to build a luxury hotel in the Maldives, offering investment opportunities through digital tokens.