Biden Outlines Purpose of Trip to Saudi Arabia

US President Joe Biden has justified the necessity of his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, stating that direct cooperation with the kingdom is essential for countering Russia and winning the competition against China.

In an interview with a newspaper ahead of his much-criticized trip, the president expressed that Saudi authorities are working with the US administration to expand oil supplies to the global market and lower oil prices.

"My job as president is to keep our country strong and secure. We need to counter Russian aggression, be in the best position to win the competition with China, and work for greater stability in a vital region of the world," Biden said.

According to him, Saudi Arabia is among the few countries that can "directly impact the results of such efforts." The President is scheduled to meet with Saudi leaders on Friday to emphasize the strengthening of strategic partnerships based on shared interests and responsibilities while upholding American fundamental values.

Among the leaders Biden will meet with is Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is suspected in the US of being involved in the murder of dissident Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.