DAMMAM: US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia John Abizaid has praised the developments taking place in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform plan aims to diversify the economy away from oil as well as usher in a new era for art, culture, society and tourism. The result is a series of ambitious projects aimed at transforming the country.  Abizaid met Prince Saud bin Naif, governor of the Eastern Province, at his office in Dammam, the Saudi Press Agency reported. They discussed a number of issues of common interests and ways to enhance cooperation. Abizaid praised developments in the Kingdom and the Eastern Province in particular. He also met Prince Ahmed bin Fahd bin Salman, who is deputy governor of the Eastern Province. Abizaid expressed his pleasure at visiting the Eastern Province and thanked the deputy governor for his hospitality. Saudi Arabia has had cordial ties with the US since 1933, when full diplomatic relations were established.