US, Arab world re-build civilisational bridges. $600 billion Trump-Salman deal writes new chapter in global business

Ziraat Times Team Report

 In a landmark development, U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement in Riyadh, signaling a significant re-engagement between the United States and the Arab world. The deal encompasses a $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia, spanning sectors such as defense, energy, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure.

President Donald Trump during his watershed speech in Riyadh on May 13, highlighted investment, collaboration and renewed ties between the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and the broader Arab world:

“This is not just a deal—this is a declaration of friendship and future”, Trump said emphasizing that the $600 billion investment agreement was more than economic—it marked a new chapter in U.S.-Arab relations rooted in trust, mutual respect, and long-term partnership.

He extended an open invitation to all Arab nations to collaborate with the U.S. in technology, infrastructure, energy, and defense, stating that shared prosperity begins with shared ambition. “The United States is ready to be the Arab world’s most committed economic partner”, he declared.

Stressing the potential economic ripple effect, Trump said the partnership would generate thousands of jobs in both countries and fuel investment in sectors like AI, green energy, and smart infrastructure. “Together, we will create jobs, drive innovation and shape a more stable Middle East”, he observed.

In a symbolic closing note, Trump positioned the agreement as a model for regional cooperation—where economic interdependence helps diminish conflict and strengthen diplomacy.

“Peace, prosperity, and progress are the pillars of our renewed alliance”, he declared.

What makes the agreement so important 

Observers believe that while these agreements mark a major economic cooperation framework between the two nations, the broader message, as articulated by President Trump in his Riyadh speech on Tuesday, was of civilisational re-engagement, friendship and economic collaboration between the U.S and the Arab world.

A substantial $142 billion was committed by Saudi Arabia for the purchase and development of advanced military equipment and services, marking one of the largest arms deals in history.

Saudi investments in the US include the areas of technology and artificial intelligence include significant funding in U.S. tech firms, with companies like Google, Oracle, and Uber poised to receive up to $80 billion. Notably, DataVolt plans to invest $20 billion in AI infrastructure within the U.S.

 The two countries’ agreement also covers $14 billion in gas turbine projects and $5 billion in aerospace initiatives, alongside investments in sports and healthcare sectors.

Symbolism and economic implications

President Trump’s remarks in Riyadh emphasized a renewed commitment to bilateral relations, stating, “This partnership marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation and mutual prosperity.” The presence of prominent American business leaders, including Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, observers believe, highlighted the deal’s significance in fostering economic ties. By strengthening U.S.-Saudi relations, the deal aims to promote stability and economic growth in the Middle East.

Global economic impact

The infusion of Saudi capital into the U.S. economy is expected to stimulate job creation and technological advancement. Conversely, American investments in Saudi Arabia will support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, aiming to diversify its economy beyond oil dependence.

“The $600 billion agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal moment in international relations, blending economic ambition with strategic objectives. As both nations navigate the complexities of global diplomacy, this partnership may serve as a foundation for future collaborations aimed at fostering peace and prosperity in the region and beyond” , said an analyst.