Constructing Unity and Prosperity in Diplomatic Economic Discourse: Insights from Positive Discourse Analysis

Abstract

This study applies positive discourse analysis (PDA) to the rhetoric of U.S. President Donald Trump delivered during a 2025 speech at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It attempts to provide answers to the following central questions: How are certain words and phrases utilised to tell stories of hope, unity, and shared values in a political-economic context where politics and economics are typically precarious matters? In what ways does President Trump use language to create an empowering message in his speech? What positive visions of cooperation and respect are expressed? In what ways do these language strategies help the U.S. achieve its goals in the Middle East? While critical discourse analysis focuses on power struggles and tension, PDA is concerned with how language is used to unite people, foster hope, and promote cooperation. This research utilises qualitative methods to analyse President Trump’s 2025 address and focuses on inclusive pronouns, metaphors, and respectful language as salient discursive tactics. These rhetorical devices help create a diplomatic message grounded in shared values and goals, suggesting that the speaker wants to strengthen alliances and encourage cross-cultural understanding. The research finds that even controversial leaders in public discourse can, on occasion, use constructive language aligned with the audience and context. The research also suggests that political rhetoric can help build confidence and solidarity, as well as validate the fundamental ideals of PDA. While the study is limited to one speech, the analysis can be extrapolated to international diplomacy in general and thus provide input to the emerging PDA discipline. It also calls for additional research on the power of positive and cooperative language in world politics, especially in alliance formation and conflict resolution.