Introduction
President Donald Trump’s recent tour of Gulf countries has been marked by pomp and circumstance, reminiscent of state visits rather than working trips. The Gulf nations are known for their hospitality and generosity, as evidenced by the lavish gifts bestowed upon Qatar. This article delves into the significance of Trump’s Gulf tour, its implications for U.S. foreign policy, and the business-oriented approach that characterized his visit.
The Allure of Ceremonial Diplomacy
Ceremonial diplomacy, such as the coffee ritual Trump experienced, captivates the American public. This traditional gesture of serving spiced coffee with dates or sweets symbolizes respect and is part of the protocol for receiving official delegations. However, beyond the aroma of cardamom or the gleam of gold, what truly matters is the revelation about U.S. foreign policy.
Trump’s Gulf Tour: Business over Ideology
Trump’s Gulf tour was his first international visit during his second term, and he chose the Middle East—specifically the Gulf region—over Israel. Unlike previous administrations, Trump’s agenda focused on business deals rather than promoting democratic values.
Trump’s Shift in U.S. Foreign Policy
In his speech in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Trump emphasized that the U.S. would intervene minimally and avoid moralizing tone in diplomacy, a stark contrast to past administrations. He praised the Arab world’s modern achievements, steering clear of contentious issues like women driving or missing journalists.
Trump’s business acumen was evident as he prioritized security, stability, and respect for sovereignty over promoting liberal democracy. He saw potential in the region’s growing tech sector, with companies like OpenAI represented by Elon Musk and Sam Altman accompanying him.
U.S. Business Deals in the Gulf
With the U.S.-China trade war on hold, Trump aimed to announce significant agreements, showcasing them as personal achievements for his political base. The deals announced with Saudi Arabia and Qatar surpassed several billion dollars, while Emirates Arab Unified were expected to unveil another multibillion-dollar agreement.
For Washington, a country’s internal governance—be it a democratic republic or an autocratic monarchy—is irrelevant compared to strategic interests. Applying this logic to Mexico, the lesson is clear: alignment with U.S. priorities matters more than the political system, though Mexico lacks the sovereign wealth to match Gulf nations’ generosity.
Historical Context: Mexico’s Gulf Ties
In 2016, a Mexican president made the first official visit to the Gulf in over four decades, signing numerous agreements. However, from this perspective, the impact was more symbolic than material.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Trump’s Gulf tour? The tour signifies a shift in U.S. foreign policy, prioritizing business deals and strategic interests over promoting democratic values.
- Why did Trump choose the Gulf over other destinations? The Gulf region offered potential business opportunities, particularly in the tech sector, aligning with Trump’s business-oriented approach.
- How does this approach affect U.S. relations with countries like Mexico? The focus is on strategic alignment rather than internal governance, which could impact countries with limited resources to match Gulf nations’ generosity.
