Saudi-US partnership ‘more critical than ever': Saudi envoy to US
The partnership between Saudi Arabia and the US is now more critical than ever, Saudi Ambassador to the US Princess Reema bint Bandar said as President Donald Trump arrived in the Kingdom on Tuesday.
The alliance between the US and the Kingdom spans over decades and 'has been a cornerstone for global stability and prosperity,' Princess Reema said in a piece published at the Washington Times. 'Today, as the world navigates new challenges and conflicts, that partnership is more critical than ever.'
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'The Saudi Arabia that Mr. Trump will visit is investing billions of dollars in fostering new economic sectors such as tourism, artificial intelligence, clean energy, culture and sports. It is a dynamic society where youths are pioneering the future and women are at the forefront of the Vision,' Princess Reema said, referring to the Vision 2030 that was launched by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2016.
The Saudi envoy said that when Trump first visited the Kingdom in 2017, Saudi Arabia was undergoing major transformation spearheaded by MBS' Vision 2030.
'Nearly eight years later, Mr. Trump will step off Air Force One to find the Vision becoming a reality,' Princess Reem wrote.
Trump arrived early on Tuesday in Riyadh and was welcomed by MBS. With his visit to the Kingdom, Trump kicks off a Gulf tour that would also take him to Qatar and the UAE.
'Today, amid an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape, leadership and alliances are more vital than ever. From counterterrorism efforts to peacekeeping initiatives, Saudi Arabia's leadership has been instrumental in leveraging the country's strategic position and resources for regional and global security,' Princess Reem said.
'Almost every major global challenge is being addressed with urgency through collaboration and a strong Saudi-US alliance…Together, we are mediators, allies and stewards leveraging our strengths to foster peace and security.'
'That is what makes Mr. Trump's visit so timely. His agenda of trade, investment, energy security and counterterrorism is in sync with our goals.'
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