F-35 jets’ approval tops agenda as Trump hosts Saudi Crown Prince

Countries expected to unveil agreements covering civilian nuclear cooperation

- BY ALEX ABRAHAM

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States will sell advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for a high-stakes White House visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, aimed at expanding defence, energy and technology ties.

Speaking ahead of yesterday’s meetings, Trump said the kingdom would be cleared to purchase the stealth aircraft, long sought by Riyadh but previously held back over security concerns and sensitivities around Israel’s military edge.

“We'll be selling F-35s,” Trump told reporters, calling Saudi Arabia “a great ally.”

Ceremonial honours