WASHINGTON – Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed President Donald Trump and the two signed agreements Tuesday.
The Saudi crown prince pledged $600 billion in investments in the United States over the next four years including more than $140 billion in arms.
“Nobody makes military equipment like us,” Trump said during his speech Tuesday. “They are the best military equipment -- best rockets.”
Trump spoke before investors at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum. He urged Iran to take a “new and a better path” during nuclear program negotiations.
Trump also announced that he is lifting sanctions against Syria to give the country “a chance at peace” and plans to meet with Ahmad al-Sharaa, Syria’s new president.
Billionaire Elon Musk was also in attendance. The Saudi investment includes a deal with Starlink.
Back home, Trump faced criticism over his intention to accept a 727, a $400 million gift from Qatar to later be donated to a future presidential library.
“Until the American people learn the truth about this deal, I will do my part to block the galling and truly breathtaking politicization at the Department of Justice,” said Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader, accusing Trump of “jeopardizing America’s national security to line his own pockets.”
Democrats were also concerned about the Trump family’s businesses in the region. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said it was “ridiculous” to “suggest” the president is “doing anything for his own benefit.”
Some Republicans were worried about the plane replacing Air Force One.
“My concern is the safety of the President United States. I don’t know how you can guarantee that that plane is ever going to be safe,” U.S. Sen. Rick Scott said adding, “That’s my biggest concern.“
Trump’s next stops will be Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
