Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The United States Consulate General in Jeddah hosted a reception commemorating the 75th anniversary of the historic meeting between US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz Al-Saud aboard the USS Quincy. The event took place on the USS Farragut and was organized in conjunction with US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT). Following the commemoration event, Consulate General Jeddah hosted its 2020 National Day event on the pier with local Saudi and international guests.

Ambassador John P. Abizaid and Consul General Ryan M. Gliha welcomed distinguished guests from Jeddah and Western Saudi Arabia, including Saudi government officials, business leaders, journalists, members of the American community, and members of Jeddah’s diplomatic corps. Guests were given the opportunity to tour the USS Farragut.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Abizaid said, “Exactly seventy-five years ago, two great leaders met aboard the USS Quincy. President Franklin Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz met to chart the future of our bilateral ties.

“The foundation for the strategic partnership the United States and Saudi Arabia share today was laid on Feb. 14, 1945, when President Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz met aboard the USS Quincy in Great Bitter Lake, Egypt. Since then, the United States and Saudi Arabia have stood together in the face of common threats, advanced prosperity and economic growth in both our countries, and forged bonds of friendship through countless exchanges and joint endeavors.”