Riyadh, 4 May 2023 (TDI): Deputy Minister for Political Affairs, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Saud Al-Sati, received the newly appointed US ambassador to the Kingdom, Michael Alan Ratney, on Thursday.
Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs Abdulmajeed Al-Smari earlier received the credentials on behalf of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
Ratney heads to Riyadh at an important time in US-Saudi relations and after a 2-year vacancy in the post.
Also read: A new chapter in US-Saudi relations
The diplomat’s confirmation follows China’s brokered deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as improving relations between Washington and Riyadh.
In March, Saudi Arabia announced the purchase of around 121 “Dreamliner” planes from the US manufacturer Boeing. The aircraft will be used for the kingdom’s newly announced airline, Riyadh Air, and the White House called the deal “historic.”
Also Read: Saudi Arabia to Purchase 121 Boeing 787 Dreamliner Aircraft
The US Senate confirmed Michael Alan Ratney as the ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in a voice vote in March.
His career has seen him serving as the State Department’s Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Israel and Palestinian Affairs and was the US Special Envoy for Syria. Before that, Ratney was the US Consul General in Jerusalem.
At the time of his nomination, Ratney said he was committed to a “strong and sustainable US-Saudi partnership that advances US interests and reflects US values.”
During the meeting with Saudi Minister Dr. Saud Al-Sati, Ratney reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia & United States and regional and international developments of common concern.
Also read: China Urges US to Adhere to One-China Principle
The situation in Sudan and Saudi Arabia’s role in the evacuation process of its Nationals and foreign nationals is also discussed.
US and Saudi officials are now seeing a more positive path forward while still acknowledging the difficult time their bilateral ties are going through.
Ratney stated he wanted to help strengthen Saudi defense through security cooperation and training, “demonstrating the durable American commitment to our partners and allies and to our values.”
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