US reassures Saudi Arabia of support

14 April, 2011 11:50

The White House has once again reassured Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah of the US support amid anti-government protests in the country.

US National security adviser Tom Donilon held comprehensive and positive talks with the Saudi monarch, the White House said on Wednesday.

“The discussions highlighted the importance of the US-Saudi partnership rooted in strong historical ties and shared interests,” said National Security Council spokesman Tommy Vietor. According to the Saudi Press Agency, Donilon delivered a letter to the king from US President Barack Obama. The visit came after US Defense Secretary Robert Gates met Saudi King Abdullah.

Last year, the US announced an arms deal with Saudi Arabia worth up to 60 billion dollars, making it the largest military sale in US history.

Meanwhile, Obama’s top aide met with UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday for a “wide-ranging” discussion, Vietor said.

He noted that they addressed their countries’ common strategic interests in the region and the “ongoing importance of the broad partnership” between the two countries.

The Crown Prince also accepted an invitation from President Obama for a meeting in Washington later this month, Vietor added.