The United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia held the 9th Strategic Joint Planning Committee (SJPC), a key forum for the bilateral defense relationship, on July 29-30, 2025, at the Pentagon. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby led the U.S. delegation. The Assistant Minister of Defense His Excellency Dr. Khalid Biyari led the Saudi delegation.
Under Secretary Colby expressed appreciation for the Kingdom's leadership, underlined the Department's commitment to strengthening the bilateral defense partnership under President Trump and Secretary Hegseth's leadership, and encouraged rapid progress in implementing the $142 billion Memoranda of Intent signed by Secretary Hegseth during President Trump's May 2025 visit to Riyadh.
Both leaders recognized U.S.-Saudi defense cooperation as a force multiplier for regional security, and reviewed opportunities to deepen cooperation.
The delegations exchanged views on a range of national defense priorities and regional security challenges. Both delegations expressed sustained and steadfast support for the longstanding U.S.-Saudi partnership. Under Secretary Colby also welcomed Saudi efforts to strengthen its self-defense capacities and to make greater contributions toward achieving shared regional objectives.
