Donald Trump, United States president, landed in Qatar on Wednesday in what marked only the second visit by an American president to the Gulf state this century — and the first since George W Bush in 2003.
Air Force One arrived at Hamad International Airport in Doha at approximately 2 p.m. local time, flanked by a formation of F-15 fighter jets. Trump was received with full ceremonial honours by Qatar’s head of state, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and senior government officials.
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High-tech welcome in the heart of Doha
The presidential motorcade featured a striking display of red Tesla Cybertrucks, reportedly a nod to Trump’s senior adviser, Tesla CEO Elon Musk. The procession was further embellished by escorts of camels and Arabian horses as it made its way to the Amiri Diwan, the emir’s administrative headquarters.
“We appreciate those camels — I haven’t seen camels like that in a long time,” Trump remarked with characteristic flair upon arrival.
Warm words and high praise
During a formal tea ceremony, the emir extended warm words to his guest, hailing Trump as “the first American president to officially visit Qatar” and expressing confidence in his diplomatic vision.
“I know that you’re a man of peace,” said Sheikh Tamim. “We hope that this time, we can do the right thing and bring peace here in the region.”
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Trump, visibly impressed by the palace surroundings, praised the craftsmanship of the building. “You look at this, it’s so beautiful. As a construction person, I’m seeing perfect marble. This is what they call perfecto,” he said.
$200 billion aircraft deal with Boeing
The visit culminated in a series of major economic and defence agreements. Most notably, Qatar signed a deal to purchase 160 aircraft from US aerospace giant Boeing, valued at $200 billion. The agreement, described by Trump as “fantastic” and a “record”, was signed in the presence of Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg.
“Congratulations to Boeing,” Trump declared during the signing ceremony.
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Record-breaking commercial and defence agreements
The White House later stated that the agreements signed during the visit could amount to over $1.2 trillion in economic exchange between the two nations. Among the largest deals is a $96 billion order for up to 210 Boeing aircraft by Qatar Airways — a move the administration claims will support one million American jobs.
Other notable contracts included $97 billion for US tech and engineering firm Parsons, and an $8.5 billion energy infrastructure deal with McDermott.
Expanding military cooperation
In the defence sector, Pete Hegset, US defence secretary signed a statement of intent with Qatar to expand military cooperation. Additional agreements were signed for the acquisition of MQ-9B drones from General Atomics and a counter-drone system developed by Raytheon.
Next stop: The United Arab Emirates
Trump is scheduled to continue his Middle East tour with a visit to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, where further engagements with regional leaders are expected.
