President Donald Trump Designates Saudi Arabia as Major Non-NATO Ally After High-Level Meeting

In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump has formally designated Saudi Arabia as a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA), strengthening the long-standing strategic partnership between Washington and Riyadh. The announcement came following President Trump’s high-profile meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), held in Washington.

During the meeting, President Trump emphasised that the MNNA designation reflects the United States’ intention to reinforce security cooperation, enhance defense alignment, and advance shared strategic interests in the Middle East. He stated that Saudi Arabia has been a crucial partner in promoting regional stability, counterterrorism efforts, and joint defense initiatives.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed the designation and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding its economic and defense engagements with the United States. In a major economic announcement, the Crown Prince pledged to increase Saudi investments in the U.S. from USD 600 billion to USD 1 trillion, marking one of the largest foreign investment expansions in American economic history.

Officials from both countries highlighted that the upgraded alliance status will unlock enhanced military collaboration, faster defense exports, and deeper intelligence-sharing mechanisms. The move also signals Washington’s intent to consolidate ties with key Middle Eastern partners amid shifting global geopolitical equations.

Analysts note that the strengthened U.S.-Saudi partnership carries wide-ranging implications—from energy security and emerging technologies to regional political dynamics. The announcement also comes at a time when global power centers are recalibrating alliances, making this designation highly consequential.

The White House confirmed that both leaders discussed regional conflicts, maritime security, countering extremist threats, and cooperation on defense modernization. The expanded economic roadmap is expected to include joint ventures in technology, infrastructure, clean energy, and defense manufacturing.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing confidence that the MNNA status will usher in a new era of strategic cooperation.

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