TLDR:
• Saudi crown prince congratulates Trump
• Hopes to boost US-Saudi ties
• Shared commitment to regional stability
RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reached out to President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday, extending congratulations and voicing Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to deepen its historic alliance with the United States. Bin Salman’s message underscores the longstanding strategic importance of Saudi-US relations as Trump prepares to assume office once more, marking his return after defeating Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. In a statement released by the Saudi ambassador, Reema Bandar Al-Saud, the crown prince conveyed his well wishes for the American people and reinforced the Kingdom’s commitment to its enduring partnership with the United States.
During Trump’s first term, his administration made a memorable initial overseas visit to Riyadh, spotlighting Saudi Arabia as a vital player in US Middle East policy. This historic visit laid the groundwork for intensified collaboration, particularly through Trump’s push for the “deal of the century,” aimed at integrating Israel within the region and reducing the influence of shared regional rival, Iran. Trump’s strategic moves, including support for the Abraham Accords, cemented ties between Israel and neighbouring Arab nations, a legacy that Saudi Arabia views as an extension of its diplomatic efforts in the region.
A renewed commitment to historic alliances
Bin Salman’s congratulatory message to Trump aligns with Riyadh’s broader approach to US foreign policy. The call highlighted Saudi Arabia’s intention to build on Trump-era initiatives, especially concerning stability in the Gulf. As tensions with Iran remain central to regional security, bin Salman’s remarks hint at a shared vision for continuing collaborative defence and diplomatic efforts under Trump’s renewed leadership. The Kingdom’s relationship with the United States remains fundamental to its foreign policy, as the Kingdom carefully navigates regional challenges and ambitions.
Vision for progress in the Middle East
Under bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia has embarked on significant domestic reforms while fostering a stronger presence on the international stage. The Vision 2030 plan, bin Salman’s ambitious roadmap, aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy away from oil dependence and promote foreign investment. Trump’s congratulatory call echoes these shared goals, suggesting both leaders are poised to reinforce cooperative frameworks around trade, security, and economic resilience. The United States remains a key partner in supporting Saudi Arabia’s socio-economic transformation.
Sustained diplomacy amid shifting geopolitics
The congratulatory call from Riyadh represents not just personal support but signals an eagerness for strengthened diplomatic ties amid complex geopolitics. The Kingdom has increasingly sought a central role in fostering regional peace and development, with its efforts in Yemen, ties with Israel, and broader international investments reflecting this agenda. As Trump prepares to re-enter office, Saudi Arabia’s leaders appear ready to engage deeply in evolving partnerships that further shared goals of peace, prosperity, and stability in the Middle East.
