The White House denies rumors that US President Joe Biden has postponed his visit to Saudi Arabia

US President Joe Biden – Photo: REUTERS

Specifically, Karine Jean-Pierre stated that President Biden’s visit to Israel and Saudi Arabia, if carried out, would be aimed at bringing benefits to the American people in the Middle East.

“If the President determines that contact with a foreign leader is beneficial to the United States and that contact produces real results, then the President will do it,” Jean-Pierre stressed. Jean-Pierre also stated that Saudi Arabia has been a strategic partner of the US for nearly 80 years with many important intertwined interests between the two countries.

The statements come amid reports that Biden is scheduled to visit Israel and Saudi Arabia before heading to Germany and Spain for the summit of the world’s top developed industries. (G7) and NATO this June.

If implemented, it would be Biden’s first visit as President to both Israel and Saudi Arabia. Some US media recently reported that the visit has been postponed to July, but Jean-Pierre denied this, stating that up to now, preparations are still being carried out, although the plan has not been announced. specific determination.

Relations between the United States and Saudi Arabia fractured after US intelligence agencies linked Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the murder of journalist Khashoggi in 2018.

However, recently, bilateral relations are said to gradually improve after Saudi Arabia agreed to increase oil production to help curb high energy prices as well as reduce supply shortages and support an extension of the agreement. ceasefire in the war in Yemen – two priorities for President Biden.