Trump identifies another crucial American partner outside NATO
US President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (Photo: Getty Images)
The US recognizes Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally. The countries have also significantly strengthened their strategic partnership, states US President Donald Trump.
It is reported that the American leader held a formal dinner at the White House with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during which he announced this decision.
Trump said that he was pleased to announce that the US was taking its military cooperation with Saudi Arabia to an even higher level by officially designating the kingdom as a major non-NATO ally, which he noted was very important for them.
CNN reports that his statement underscores the US desire to deepen and formalize its military partnership with the kingdom. Earlier on Tuesday, the White House chief announced that Saudi Arabia would acquire F-35 fighter jets, which it has long sought.
According to the White House, Trump and the Crown Prince also completed a series of landmark agreements that deepen the strategic partnership between the US and Saudi Arabia, expand opportunities for high-paying jobs in America, strengthen critical supply chains, and enhance regional stability.
Speaking at the dinner, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman praised his kingdom’s relations with the US.
He said that it was a special day and that they had signed many agreements that would pave the way for deeper development of relations in many areas.
Major non-NATO ally
Major non-NATO allies do not receive the special security guarantees afforded to NATO members under Article 5, but this designation changes how US military forces interact with the country.
These allies are eligible for loans of materials and supplies, can serve as locations for storing US military reserves, and may enter agreements with the US for training.
Additionally, private companies from the designated country can participate in bids for contracts involving maintenance, repair, or overhaul of US military equipment abroad. Currently, 19 countries are designated as major non-NATO allies, including Israel, Japan, and New Zealand.
The day before, Trump announced plans to approve the sale of US-made F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.
We also reported that the US State Department gave the green light to defense contracts with Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The total value of these agreements amounts to billions of dollars.
