U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the signing of several agreements totaling over $200 billion between the United States and the United Arab Emirates, including a $14.5 billion commitment involving Boeing, GE Aerospace, and Etihad Airways Rks News reports.
During his multi-day visit to the Middle East, Trump also pledged to further strengthen ties between the two nations.
The White House confirmed on Thursday that Etihad Airways has agreed to invest $14.5 billion for the purchase of 28 American aircraft Boeing 787s and Boeing 777X models—equipped with GE Aerospace engines, according to The Guardian.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, stated last month that the airline plans to add between 20 and 22 new aircraft to its current fleet of around 100 this year, aiming to expand to over 170 aircraft by 2030.
However, the multi-billion-dollar agreements have sparked controversy due to reports of a potential gift from the Qatari government to President Trump a luxury jet valued at $400 million. The President remarked that he “would be a fool not to accept the gift,” while critics have raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest and violations of ethical standards.
