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Trump’s Middle East trip: Business and Politics Intertwined?
Capital — May 15, 2024 —
President Donald Trump’s Middle East trip has reignited discussions about potential conflicts of interest. The trip includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, nations where the former president has extensive business dealings.Critics are questioning whether Trump’s financial interests could influence his policy decisions. Examining the interplay of business and politics requires careful assessment, and could be insightful.
Trump’s Middle East Trip: Business and Politics Intertwined?
Shiny gold and oil: President Trump’s first foreign trip since returning to the white House takes him to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, raising questions about the intersection of political and business interests.
The Allure of the Gulf States
Trump’s preference for the Gulf region is no secret.He has openly expressed his affinity for these oil-rich nations.They have nothing but money, right? They buy a lot from us, I don’t want to lose them,
he stated at a campaign rally.
did You Know?
The Gulf States hold approximately 40% of the world’s proven oil reserves, making them significant players in the global energy market.
Trump’s Real Estate Empire in the middle East
The Trump Organization has been actively expanding its presence in the Middle East, with numerous real estate projects underway.
- Dubai: The first Trump International Hotel in the Middle East is set to open soon.
- saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar: Contracts have been signed for hotels, villas, and golf courses bearing the Trump name.
Family Ties and Financial Interests
Trump’s family members are deeply involved in both the Trump Organization and other ventures with ties to the Middle East.
- Trump’s Children: They lead the Trump Organization and invest in the crypto sector. Eric Trump collaborates with Zach Witkoff, son of Steve Witkoff, a special envoy for the Middle East.
- Jared Kushner: Trump’s son-in-law, after serving as a White House consultant in the Middle East, launched an investment fund focused on the region. He secured over $2 billion in investment from Saudi Arabia two years ago.
Concerns Over Conflict of Interest
Critics have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest arising from Trump’s business dealings and his governance’s policies toward the Middle East.
In these countries, Trump knows that the decisions he makes as president can have consequences for his own financial interest. For that reason, civil servants could grant him special favors, or can punish him for decisions that they do not like.
Citizens for Ethics, a U.S. government watchdog
Though, Trump’s spokesperson dismisses these concerns, stating, It is indeed ridiculous that someone even gives the impression that President Trump is doing somthing for his own gain.
Preference for Saudi Arabia
Trump’s affinity for Saudi Arabia is evident in his actions and statements.
- He broke with tradition by visiting Saudi Arabia first during his initial presidency, rather than Mexico or Canada.
- He received a warm welcome in Riyadh, with the Saudis projecting a large portrait of Trump onto a luxury hotel.
- Saudi Crown Prince Bin Salman was among the first foreign leaders Trump contacted upon returning to the Oval Office. Trump describes him as
a fantastic guy.
Pro Tip
Understanding the ancient context of U.S.-Saudi relations is crucial. The alliance dates back to the 1940s and has been built on shared interests in oil and regional stability.
Economic and Strategic Interests
Trump’s approach to foreign policy prioritizes business and economic gains. his visit aligns with the view that U.S. foreign policy should primarily focus on generating money.
I saeid to the Saudis, I am the first to come to you if you pay 1 billion dollars,
Trump stated, referring to potential investments in energy, AI, and defense.
A “Flying Palace” from Qatar?
Qatar reportedly intends to gift President Trump a flying palace
, a Boeing aircraft valued at $400 million. This has sparked controversy, but Trump defends it as a public and obvious transaction.
