The US and Saudi Arabia signed several new agreements on Tuesday as US President Donald Trump began a four-day state visit to the Gulf with Riyadh as the first destination.

 

At a formal signing ceremony in Riyadh’s Royal Court, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and President Trump signed memoranda of understanding, letters of intent, and other executive agreements spanning different government agencies, said a CNN report.

 

Multiple deals focused on the two countries’ military cooperation, including the “modernisation and development of the capabilities of the Saudi armed forces through future defense capabilities,” enhanced cooperation on “ammunition training, support services, maintenance system upgrades, spare parts and education for land and air systems of the National Guard,” and the “development of the health capabilities of the Saudi armed forces” were signed.

 

The moment underscored deepening cooperation between the two countries as the Crown Prince has sought to position himself as a key US ally.

 

Other agreements were signed, including cooperation between the nations’ customs authorities, on “medical research related to infectious diseases,” “judicial cooperation” and a partnership between the Saudi Ministry of Interior and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, among others.

 

HRH Prince Mohammed eralier received President Trump at the Royal Court in Al-Yamamah Palace today. An official reception ceremony was held, featuring an Arabian horse escort for the presidential motorcade, a trumpet fanfare, as well as the rendition of the American and Saudi national anthems.

 

Following the ceremony, the Crown Prince escorted the president to the main reception hall, where both leaders enjoyed traditional Saudi coffee and exchanged greetings with members of each other’s delegations.

 

The Crown Prince subsequently hosted an official luncheon in honour of President Trump.

 

The US also announced a weapons sale of over $1.4 billion to the UAE ahead of Trump’s trip. A slew of deals between the two countries is expected to be announced during his visit, including investments in AI, chips, manufacturing and energy.