Washington: US President Donald Trump is expected to visit Saudi Arabia in mid-May on what would be his first foreign trip since returning to the White House, according to a report in Saudi Gazette citing Axios news website.
Axios was citing two American officials and a source familiar with the matter.
The planned visit highlights the strong ties between the Trump administration and Saudi Arabia, particularly in areas of economic cooperation and investment.
Trump’s first official trip as president in 2017 also took him to Saudi Arabia, underscoring the symbolic and strategic importance Riyadh holds for his administration.
According to Axios, preparations for the visit are ongoing as the administration works to revive the ceasefire in Gaza and push for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
“I am going to Saudi Arabia. Normally you would go to the UK first. Last time I went to Saudi Arabia,” he said in comments made at the White House early this month.
Talks about the visit reportedly took place between senior US and Saudi officials, including during recent discussions on the Ukraine conflict hosted in the Kingdom. A tentative date of April 28 was considered but later postponed, sources told Axios.
An official from the Trump administration said the trip is currently being planned. “We don't yet have a specific plan, and we will provide that information when it is official,” a White House spokesperson stated.
According to the source, the visit will focus on foreign investment, strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, and efforts to end regional conflicts.
Good relations with the Middle East
Saudi Arabia is currently playing an active role in mediating a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. According to the source, Riyadh is keen for Trump’s visit to follow a successful truce between the two sides.
According to Al Arabia English, Trump said: “I have a very good relationship with the Middle East,” highlighting his ties with Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. “He’s great and wonderful,” he added, referring to MBS.
Trump also hinted at possible visits to the UAE and Qatar after his stop in Riyadh.
