White House Press Secretary Karine Jean noted that the agreements will anchor Saudi Arabia’s new international airline together with support for a new international airport. The partnership is another milestone in eight decades of cooperation between Saudi Arabia.
Reflecting the significant political as well as economic impact of the announced sale of up to 121 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft equipped with General Electric engines to the newly established Riyadh Air and Saudi Arabia Airlines (Saudia), both the White House and the Embassy of Saudi Arabia released statements.
Commenting on the manufacturing agreement, which includes Saudia ordering 39 jets with options to purchase 10 more and a new carrier, Riyadh Air, ordering 39 jets with options to purchase 33 more, HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States, said that, “Not long after the founding of the modern Saudi state, it was American companies that helped build our young economy. And American companies will continue to be an important part of our bold future. This announcement is part of the Vision 2030 agenda, driven by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for a vibrant and diversified Saudi economy. It is a blueprint for economic and social reform that is opening Saudi Arabia up to the world”.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean stated that the deals will, “support more than 140,000 American jobs, many of which do not require a four year college degree. We are particularly pleased that Boeing was able to finally conclude these deals with Saudi Arabia after years of discussions, and intensive negotiations over recent months. Today’s announcement ensures that Boeing and General Electric will anchor Saudi Arabia’s new international airline together with support for a new international airport.”
She added that, “This partnership is another milestone in eight decades of cooperation between Saudi Arabia and American industry. Our administration looks forward to working with Saudi Arabia and all partners in the Middle East to support a more prosperous, secure, and integrated region, which ultimately benefits the American people.”
