Saudi Arabia and Qatar leaders pulled out a stop this week for a few days tour of President Donald Trump’s Middle East, including decorations, military displays and Tesla Cyber Truck.
It was the first major foreign trip of Trump’s second term, swinging through three wealthy Gulf countries – Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, focusing on the economic and investment transactions of regions plagued by geopolitical volatility.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt said Trump is traveling for “commercial and cultural exchange.”
Trump’s Middle East Tour Photos
Arrival of Trump’s lavender purple carpets to Saudi Arabia
Trump was greeted with elaborate dignity and ceremony in the Saudi Arabian capital on Tuesday.
His arrival in Saudi Arabian airspace was caught between escorts of F-15 fighter jets, landing at the Royal Terminal of King Khalid International Airport, waiting for a lavender carpet lined with Arabian horses, Regalia guards and live band riders. He was greeted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the de facto leader of the Gulf Kingdom.
On Tuesday, May 13th, Trump’s visit included a coffee ceremony, attendance at the Saudi Arabian Investment Forum, a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a luxurious state dinner.
His visit is a difference from the tradition among modern US presidents visiting Mexico or Canada during their first foreign trip after his administration imposed tariffs on neighboring countries early in his term.
Trump’s visit has set economic deals at the forefront and launched its visit with a $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia and an announcement of a $142 billion US arms package for its oil-rich people.
The president also announced during his visit that the United States would lift long-standing sanctions in Syria, meeting with national president Ahmed Alshara, urging him to normalize relations with Israel.
Trump gets red carpet treatment when he arrives in Qatar
Trump’s second day began with a similarly carpet-lined arrival. This time the colour has turned red. His visit to the country comes amidst a backlash at home after the president signaled that he might accept the Boeing 747 from the Qatar government as his next presidential aircraft. The proposal raises questions about foreign influence on his administration and encourages concerns over Trump’s close business ties with the region.
To avoid losing, the US President of Qatar’s reception featured its own fighter jet escort from Air Force 1, with Red Tesla Cyber Truck accompanying the Motorcade on the ground.
Kathryn Palmer is a national trending news reporter for USA Today. You can contact her kapalmer@usatoday.com And with x @Kathrynplmr.
