The Blubber

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman informed President Donald Trump that the kingdom plans to invest $600 billion in expanding trade and investment with the United States over the next four years, according to the Saudi State news agency on Thursday morning.

During a phone conversation between the two leaders, the crown prince expressed optimism that the Trump administration's anticipated reforms could lead to "unprecedented economic prosperity," the report stated.

The news agency mentioned that Saudi Arabia hopes to leverage its investments to take advantage of these potential conditions. However, it did not specify whether the $600 billion would come from public or private funds, nor did it clarify how the money would be allocated.

The report further noted that the investment amount "could increase further if additional opportunities arise," citing Bin Salman's comments to Trump.

Throughout his first term, Trump built strong relationships with Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia. After leaving office, Saudi Arabia invested $2 billion in a firm founded by Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and former advisor.

On Monday, following his inauguration, Trump stated that he would consider making Saudi Arabia his first foreign visit if Riyadh agreed to purchase $500 billion worth of American products, similar to his approach during his first term.

"I did it with Saudi Arabia last time because they agreed to buy $450 billion worth of our product. I said I'll do it, but you have to buy American products, and they agreed to that," Trump said, referencing his 2017 visit to the Gulf kingdom.