Trump Hosts Bahrain Crown Prince After Signing Nuclear Cooperation Deal
- President Trump met Bahrain’s crown prince at the White House.
- The U.S. and Bahrain signed a civilian-nuclear cooperation deal.
- The deal represents a $17 billion investment in the U.S. economy.
- A significant portion includes a $7 billion aircraft deal with Gulf Air.
- A dinner with Qatari officials is scheduled to discuss Gaza ceasefire.
Bahrain and U.S. Sign Key Nuclear Agreement
Bahraini Crown Prince Meets President Trump Amid New Deal President Donald Trump welcomed Bahrain’s crown prince, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, to the White House this Wednesday. The meeting coincided with the signing of a significant civilian-nuclear cooperation deal. This agreement, termed a “123 agreement,” enables U.S. companies to invest in and set up nuclear energy projects in Bahrain, marking a notable step in U.S.-Bahrain relations.
Investment Deals Valued at $17 Billion
Details of the Financial Investment and Trade Notably, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani signed the memorandum ahead of the crown prince’s visit. According to Secretary Rubio, the U.S. is open to partnering with any nation seeking a civil nuclear program that is non-threatening and not directed towards weapons. Further showcasing U.S.-Bahraini ties, the crown prince also met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to unveil a whopping $17 billion investment into American infrastructure. This is not just talk; these are real deals.
Aircraft Deal to Create Thousands of Jobs
Details on Aircraft and Economic Impact A White House source informed Reuters that a sizable chunk of this investment includes a deal worth about $7 billion between Gulf Air and Boeing/GE for 12 aircraft. There’s also an option for six more, as well as a sale of 40 GE engines as part of the package. It’s estimated this deal could support around 30,000 jobs in the United States, secured with assistance from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. This development follows Trump’s trip to the Middle East back in May where he inked a staggering $600 billion deal with Saudi Arabia and substantial agreements with Qatar.
Ongoing Negotiations Around Gaza Ceasefire
Future Conversations on Middle East Peace Efforts Later in the evening, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammad bin Abdulrahman al-Thani is set to dine with Trump amidst discussions in Doha involving Israeli and Hamas officials regarding a possible ceasefire in Gaza. Earlier this month, Trump had hinted at Israel agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire; however, Hamas stated that more negotiations are still required before any agreement can be finalized. The situation remains ever-fluid, providing ample challenges and opportunities for the U.S. as it seeks to broker a peaceful resolution in the region.
In conclusion, President Trump’s recent meeting with Bahrain’s crown prince and the signing of a civilian-nuclear cooperation deal signals a strengthening of ties between the U.S. and Bahrain. Additionally, the unveiling of a $17 billion investment in American infrastructure demonstrates Bahrain’s commitment to economic collaboration. As the U.S. continues to engage with Middle Eastern nations, the potential for further investments and peace negotiations remains at the forefront of diplomatic efforts.
