Saudi Arabia is set to host a Gulf-US summit in mid-May, marking the first visit of President Donald Trump to the kingdom during his second term. This event follows a similar summit in May 2017.
The meeting in Riyadh has sparked discussions about significant announcements from Trump, including potential agreements in security, military, and technology sectors, particularly focusing on artificial intelligence.
Most Gulf leaders will attend, but King Salman bin Abdulaziz will not due to health issues.
Recognition of Palestine
A diplomatic source noted that Trump might declare U.S. recognition of a Palestinian state, which would significantly alter the Middle Eastern power dynamics. This declaration could encourage other nations to join the Abraham Accords. However, some analysts, like Ahmed Al-Ibrahim, express skepticism about a focus on Palestine, especially with Egypt and Jordan, crucial players in the region, not invited.
Historically, similar summits in 2017 resulted in major financial commitments, including over $400 billion in deals. Gulf monarchies have significant investments in the U.S., with the UAE boasting over $1 trillion and Saudi Arabia more than $600 billion.
Al-Ibrahim highlighted that Trump’s visit will extend to the UAE and Qatar, emphasizing their importance in the global economy.
Economic Developments
Saudi political analyst Ahmed Boushouki believes the summit will center on substantial economic agreements, possibly echoing the 2017 commitments. He mentioned Trump’s recent comments urging Americans to invest in stocks ahead of the summit, signaling potential market-moving announcements.
Saudi Arabia aims to advance its nuclear energy plans, a subject raised since 2010. The kingdom is working with international firms to build its first nuclear reactor, while the UAE has already operationalized its Barakah reactor, becoming a leader in Arab nuclear energy.
This upcoming summit and its discussions may not only reshape politics but also bolster economic relations across the Gulf and beyond.
For more detailed insights, visit The Media Line.
Source link
United States,Saudi Arabia,Donald Trump,palestinian statehood,The Media Line