“As president, my job is to keep our country strong and secure. We must counter Russia’s aggression, put ourselves in the best possible position to overcome China, and work for greater stability in a consistent region of the world. “, wrote Biden. Saturday in an opinion piece for The Washington Post.
“To do these things, we need to relate directly to countries that may be affected by these results. Saudi Arabia is one of them, and when I meet with Saudi leaders on Friday, my goal will be to strengthen a strategic partnership in the a future that is based on mutual interests and responsibilities, while remaining true to core American values, ”he added.
The president’s visit has drawn criticism as US intelligence has held Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman responsible for ordering the assassination of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi. As a presidential candidate, Biden had pledged to make the kingdom a “pria.”
In his comment, Biden also said he will focus on a more integrated and stable Middle East, and described the region as “essential to global trade and the supply chains we trust”, while noting how the critical energy supplies of the Middle East are seen. of sanctions on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.
“And a region that unites through diplomacy and cooperation, rather than unraveling through conflict, is less likely to lead to violent extremism that threatens our homeland or to new wars that could impose new ones. charges to the U.S. military and their families. “Biden said.
Biden tacitly criticized his predecessor, former President Donald Trump, for abandoning the nuclear deal with Iran and said his administration “will continue to increase diplomatic and economic pressure until Iran is ready to return to power.” compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, as I am prepared to do so. ” . “
The president is also scheduled to travel to Israel during the visit. He promoted U.S. security assistance to the country in his opinion piece, while noting, “Working with Congress, my administration restored approximately $ 500 million in support of the Palestinians.”
Biden is due to travel to the region on Wednesday.