Importance Score: 62 / 100 🔴
Trump Honored with Opulent Welcome in Saudi Arabia, Drives Golf Cart with Crown Prince
DIRIYAH, Saudi Arabia – In a display of elaborate hospitality, former President Trump was transported to a state dinner by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in a golf cart on Tuesday. This gesture culminated a series of grand ceremonies celebrating the visit of the U.S. leader, highlighting the strong relationship between the two nations. The visit also focused on Saudi investments, weapon sales, and reaffirming the military partnership between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.
Royal Welcome and Grand Entrance
Trump, 78, joined the 39-year-old Saudi Crown Prince, the nation’s de facto leader, in the golf cart amidst a traditional Saudi welcome at the royal family’s historical 18th-century capital, located just outside Riyadh. The opulent arrival set the stage for discussions on strengthening the alliance and addressing mutual interests. The evening featured:
- A traditional welcome ceremony
- Horsemen carrying U.S. flags
- A mounted camel squadron
The State Dinner at Salwa Palace
Scores of men, adorned in traditional Saudi attire composed of white robes and red headscarves, swayed and chanted to the rhythm of drums in front of Salwa Palace, which was constructed in 1765. Trump’s arrival at the formal state dinner, accompanied by cabinet members and Elon Musk, underscored the importance of the ongoing diplomatic engagements to discuss Saudi Investments and weapon sales.
Symbolism in Transportation
The use of a golf cart was interpreted as a gesture of personal diplomacy, recognizing Trump’s enthusiasm for golf and his frequent use of similar vehicles during his leisure trips to his resorts. This personal touch reinforced the apparent warmth and strong ties between the two leaders, in addition to solidifying the military partnership.
Earlier Tributes and Salutations
Earlier in the day, Air Force One received a six-fighter-jet escort upon entering Saudi airspace. Following this aerial salute, a squadron of white Arabian horses escorted the motorcade to the royal palace, setting the tone for a series of cordial interactions.
Praise and Partnership
Throughout the day, Trump and the Crown Prince, often referred to as MBS, exchanged warm compliments. This meeting contrasted with a previous encounter where former President Joe Biden offered only a fist bump to the prince, a gesture seen as a protest, reportedly due to the monarch’s alleged involvement in the 2018 death of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Economic and Military Agreements
Trump lauded what he described as pledges of nearly $1 trillion in new Saudi investments within the U.S. He also affirmed the commitment to selling $142 billion in weapons to the kingdom. This decision to sell weapons solidified the military partnership, despite previous bipartisan opposition concerning the conflict in Yemen.
Controlled Access and Restrictions
The Saudi government meticulously orchestrated the visit. Journalists covering Trump’s arrival at the dinner were cautioned against shouting questions, to avoid potentially disruptive or controversial inquiries regarding topics such as the nation’s nuclear ambitions and concerns about human rights.