Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in a meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Washington, D.C. on April 9, 2025. The discussions included topics of international cooperation and regional security.
According to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Secretary Rubio expressed gratitude for the efforts made by Saudi Arabia in mediating peace between Russia and Ukraine. He commended Saudi Arabia's contributions to increasing economic and defense cooperation, addressing the Houthi threat, and restoring the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea.
The meeting also covered diplomatic efforts in Gaza, focusing on the release of hostages and achieving a lasting ceasefire in which Hamas is completely disarmed and disempowered. This aligns with the broader aim of regional stability.
Secretary Rubio and Prince Faisal agreed on the need for Sudan's Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces to resume peace talks. Both highlighted the necessity of civilian protection, the opening of humanitarian corridors, and a return to civilian governance in Sudan.
The U.S.-Saudi relationship was another significant topic. Secretary Rubio and the Foreign Minister acknowledged the importance of this partnership and committed to exploring ways to further strengthen their bilateral ties.
