Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received an elaborate welcome at the White House on Tuesday, November 18, during a visit that underscored strengthening ties between Riyadh and Washington. US President Donald Trump greeted the Crown Prince with full ceremonial honors, including a red-carpet reception, cannon fire and a horse parade, marking one of the most formal welcomes extended to a foreign leader this year.
The two leaders held discussions in the Oval Office before taking questions from reporters, producing several headline-making exchanges that quickly circulated across social media.
During the meeting, the Crown Prince highlighted Saudi Arabia’s plans to raise its investment commitments from $600 billion to $1 trillion. Trump, appearing momentarily surprised, asked him to repeat the figure. After Mohammed bin Salman reaffirmed the number with a smile, Trump responded, “I like that very much,” a remark that drew wide attention online.
The conversation later shifted to the killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. Trump defended the Crown Prince when questioned by reporters, stating that Mohammed bin Salman had no prior knowledge of the incident. The US President has maintained this position despite ongoing criticism from rights groups and lawmakers.
Tensions rose when a reporter pressed Trump about whether his family’s business dealings in Saudi Arabia posed a conflict of interest. Trump reacted sharply, accusing the journalist of attempting to “embarrass” his guest. He also attacked the reporter’s employer, ABC News, describing it as “one of the worst” media organizations and suggesting its licence should be revoked — remarks that immediately drew scrutiny.
The state visit concluded with a private dinner attended by prominent global figures from sports, technology and entertainment. Among the guests were football star Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing for Saudi club Al Nassr, and entrepreneur Elon Musk. Musk’s attendance sparked speculation about a thaw between him and Trump following their previous public disagreements.
The meeting and its surrounding events signalled the importance both leaders place on maintaining a close partnership. The high-profile welcome, investment talks and notable guest list at the evening dinner highlighted Saudi Arabia’s continued efforts to deepen its international relationships while drawing major global figures into its orbit.
