Saudi deputy crown prince meets Kerry

Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman kicked off his visit to the United States on Monday by holding a meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry at the latter’s residence in Washington, and discussed boosting Saudi-US relations and regional issues.

Kerry hosted Prince Mohammed at his personal residence in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington.

According to the State Department, the two shared an iftar dinner – a meal that marks the end of the day’s fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan – and “reviewed the strong and enduring relationship” between their countries.

Kerry and Prince Mohammed also “discussed a broad range of regional issues, including Yemen, Syria, Libya, and countering terrorism.” Saudi’s plan to reform its economy, unveiled in April, was also discussed.

“Finally, the two discussed this weekend's shooting in Orlando and expressed their shared commitment to continue their cooperation in combatting the spread of violent extremism, both regionally and internationally,” spokesman John Kirby said.

Upon his arrival to Washington, the deputy crown prince announced that the Saudi King Salman scholarship program will include 2,628 male and female students, currently studying in the US.

The Deputy Crown Prince’s visit to the US will include other stops, during which he will meet with US officials to discuss political and economic issues.