Gifts bestowed on President Obama - 11/06/09

US President Barack Obama has been given a lavish gift by the King of Saudi Arabia.

King Abdullah staged an elaborate welcome ceremony and gave the American president a large gold necklace, which he says carries special meaning.

"Those are only given to the very few friends of the king, and you are certainly one of those," Abdullah said as draped the enormous chain and medallion around Obama's neck.

Obama replied: "I consider the king's friendship a great blessing, and I am very appreciative that he would bestow this honor on me during this visit."

As he was presented with the gift he commented: "Goodness gracious. That's something there."

Obama took the necklace off after a few minutes for "safekeeping." The jewellery is actually an award called the King Abdul Aziz Order of Merit, the country's highest honor.

Related Gifts

Engraved Plaque and Plinth

Engraved Plaque for tree planting.

£29.60

This is a unique personalisable gift product to help make tree or wildflower gifts a little more special. Give us a personal message to be engraved o...

Read more

Limited stock
Rowan Tree Gift

(Or Mountain Ash)
Sorbus aucuparia

£24.50

The Rowan tree is the Celtic 'Tree of Life'. Rowan Trees or Mountain Ash as they are also known are said to protect from negative enchantment and in ...

Read more

Limited stock