The United States and Saudi Arabia have solidified their relationship with the signing of a landmark Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement, securing a staggering $600 billion in investment and export deals. Announced on May 13, this agreement marks a significant development in the bilateral relations between the two nations, focusing on energy, defense, and resources.
U.S. President Donald Trump, on his Middle East tour, met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, where they inked the comprehensive deal. The agreement is set to enhance security cooperation through substantial arms sales, including a historic $142 billion contract with 12 U.S. defense firms for cutting-edge defense equipment. This contract encompasses advanced air force and space capabilities, air and missile defense, and modernized ground force infrastructure.
Further cooperation in the private sector is also a pivotal element of the agreement. Saudi Arabia's DataVolt is slated to invest $20 billion in AI data centers and energy infrastructure within the United States. In collaboration with American giants like Google, Oracle, and Uber, DataVolt will inject an additional $80 billion into next-generation technologies across both nations.
Infrastructure development is another cornerstone of this partnership. American firms, including Hill International and AECOM, are set to participate in major projects like the King Salman International Airport in Saudi Arabia, anticipated to yield $2 billion in exports for the U.S. service industry.
The agreement also outlines significant exports, such as GE Vernova's $14.2 billion in gas turbines and energy solutions, and Boeing's $4.8 billion deal for 737-8 aircraft. In healthcare, Shameh IV Solutions will channel $5.8 billion into the U.S., including establishing a factory in Michigan.
This agreement extends beyond economic interests, including side agreements on energy, defense, mineral resources, legal cooperation, and space and infectious disease collaboration. It represents a strategic win for President Trump, aligning large-scale exports and investment inflows with bolstered security cooperation with Saudi Arabia.
During discussions, President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed addressed critical Middle Eastern security concerns, including stabilizing the Gaza Strip, Syria, and oil prices, and dismantling Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The meeting underscored the personal rapport between Trump and Mohammed, with Trump expressing mutual respect and appreciation. He highlighted the U.S. securing significant investments and job creation, while playfully remarking on Saudi Arabia's $600 billion investment announcement.
President Trump's Middle East tour continues with visits to Qatar and the UAE, marking his first official overseas trip since assuming office in January. Notably, Trump's itinerary could include an unexpected appearance at the Istanbul peace talks, depending on Russian President Vladimir Putin's attendance.
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