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The rise of a new Trump-friendly Middle East
The Saudi crown prince’s visit to Washington caps a major transformation in America’s relationship with the region.
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Nov 18.
PHOTO: EPA
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“We have an extremely respected man in the Oval Office today, and a friend of mine for a very long time, a very good friend of mine.” That was how US President Donald Trump described Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia on his arrival at the White House
Although he is not a head of state and therefore did not qualify for the honours of a state visit, the heir to the Saudi throne – who is usually referred to by his MBS initials – was treated to all the pomp the US administration reserves for its most distinguished visitors, including a flypast by the US Air Force and a grand candlelit banquet during which Mr Trump heaped even more praise on the 40-year-old prince.
