President Donald Trump is rolling out an exceptional level of ceremony for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to the White House today.
According to sources familiar with the plans, the day’s events will include a formal welcome featuring military bands, a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office, and an evening black-tie dinner.
Although the reception is highly elaborate, the visit does not qualify as an official state visit, as the crown prince is not the kingdom’s head of state—his 89-year-old father, King Salman, still holds that title. However, Prince Mohammed effectively manages nearly all daily governance and represents Saudi Arabia at major diplomatic gatherings.
Context: This marks the crown prince’s first trip to the White House in more than seven years.
Ahead of the visit, U.S. and Saudi negotiators were working to finalize defense and security agreements, including significant purchases of U.S.-made fighter jets and other weapons, a U.S. official said.
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