By: Ahmed Fathi
"The United States and Saudi Arabia have further emphasized their commitment to safeguarding the stability of global energy supply," according to a White House readout of their telephone conversation.
As well as "regional trends and topics of mutual interest," Biden and Salman discussed "aspects of shared concern," which included attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthis against Saudi Arabian citizens.
As the Houthis attempt to grab control of Yemen's northern region, government troops in the country have been pressing back against them in recent weeks, according to reports.
As the White House stated, "President Obama reaffirmed the United States' commitment to assist Saudi Arabia in defending its people and territory against these attacks, as well as its complete support for UN-led efforts to bring the conflict in Yemen to a close."
Saudi Arabia's national news agency, SPA, stated that the call included discussions about maintaining balance and stability in the petroleum markets. In the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Saudi Arabia is said to export the most crude oil.
According to Reuters, Salman also highlighted the need of maintaining the supply agreement it has with OPEC+, which is comprised of countries that are not members of OPEC but export crude oil to the United States.
The announcement comes a week after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+) said that it will continue to boost its oil supply by moderate quantities. According to reports, the organization has had difficulty meeting pre-established objectives.
Global crude oil prices have increased by almost 20% this year, according to Reuters, and are expected to top $100 a barrel due to relatively constant global demand in the coming months.
In addition, the two leaders discussed nuclear weapons and their implications. As stated by the White House, Biden "reaffirmed his commitment to ensure that Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon and provided the King with an update on continuing international negotiations to reinstate restrictions on Iran's nuclear program."
Comments