RIYADH — U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday praised Saudi Arabia as "the greatest nation in the world," in remarks at the Saudi–U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh that underscored deepening ties and shared ambitions between Washington and Riyadh. Speaking at the high-profile forum, Trump lauded Saudi Arabia's leadership, economic transformation, and growing role on the world stage. "You are among the most prosperous nations in the world," he told the audience, adding, "Riyadh will become a global business hub. The future of the Middle East begins here." Trump heaped special praise on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, calling him a tireless leader. "He works hard — I don't think he even sleeps at night," the president said, crediting both King Salman and the Crown Prince with leading a "remarkable and profound transformation in the region." The president described his visit to the Kingdom as historic, saying: "It is a great honor to be welcomed in Saudi Arabia in this way," and pledged to further strengthen U.S.–Saudi ties. "We will make our relationship with Saudi Arabia even stronger," he declared. Trump also thanked the Kingdom for its "constructive role" in facilitating talks on Ukraine and emphasized the importance of diplomacy in addressing regional tensions. He reiterated his readiness to engage Iran: "I want to strike a deal with Iran to make the world a safer place." In a major policy announcement, Trump said the United States would lift sanctions on Syria, citing discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. "I decided to lift sanctions on Syria after discussing the matter with the Saudi Crown Prince," he revealed. On defense and security, Trump stressed the strength of U.S. commitments to its allies. "Anyone who threatens America and its partners will be met with force," he warned. "I will not hesitate to use military force to defend Saudi Arabia."
